journalfront

Recipes

New Mobile Pantry to Tackle Food Insecurity in Las Vegas Valley

2024-12-02

Las Vegas, a city known for its vibrant entertainment scene, is also facing a significant issue - food deserts. A local nonprofit is taking a proactive approach to address this problem by expanding its efforts. The initiative, the Groceries on the Go program, is set to introduce a new mobile food pantry early next year with the support of Just One Project and UnitedHealthcare. This mobile pantry is dedicated to bringing fresh produce and healthy groceries to the underserved areas of Southern Nevada. Since its start in 2021, the program has already served over 17,000 individuals, making a substantial impact on food security. The expansion is expected to further alleviate food insecurity in the region and provide much-needed assistance to those in need.

Empowering Communities with Fresh Groceries

The Groceries on the Go Program - A Game Changer

The Groceries on the Go program is a revolutionary initiative that aims to bridge the gap between food availability and those who are struggling with food deserts. By providing a mobile pantry, it brings the convenience of fresh groceries directly to the doorstep of underserved communities. This not only saves time and effort for the residents but also ensures they have access to healthy food options.

With the help of Just One Project and UnitedHealthcare, the program has been able to grow and reach more people. The collaboration between these organizations has allowed for the efficient distribution of resources and the implementation of effective strategies to combat food insecurity. The success of the program so far is a testament to the power of collective efforts in making a positive change.

Alleviating Food Insecurity in Southern Nevada

Food insecurity is a pressing issue in Southern Nevada, affecting many individuals and families. The mobile food pantry introduced by the Groceries on the Go program is a crucial step in addressing this problem. It provides a reliable source of fresh produce and healthy groceries, which are often scarce in food deserts. By reaching out to underserved areas, the program is able to make a tangible difference in the lives of those who are in need.

The expansion of the program is expected to have a significant impact on the region. It will increase the availability of food and improve the nutritional status of the community. This, in turn, can lead to better health outcomes and a more sustainable future for Southern Nevada.

Making a Lasting Impact Since 2021

Since its inception in 2021, the Groceries on the Go program has been making a lasting impact on the lives of individuals and families. Over 17,000 people have already benefited from this initiative, receiving fresh produce and healthy groceries that they may not have had access to otherwise. The program has become a lifeline for many, providing them with the means to nourish themselves and their families.

The success of the program is a result of the dedicated efforts of the local nonprofit, Just One Project, and UnitedHealthcare. Their collaboration has allowed for the seamless operation of the mobile food pantry and the continuous delivery of essential goods. This ongoing commitment to serving the community is what sets the Groceries on the Go program apart and makes it a model for other similar initiatives.

In Birmingham, Alabama, the holiday season presents a challenging time for many as food struggles become more prevalent. The US Department of Agriculture's latest figures reveal a concerning trend - an increasing number of households across the country, including here in our area, are facing difficulties in feeding their families. In 2023 alone, approximately 18 million households did not have access to sufficient food.

"Helping Birmingham's Hungry Families This Holiday Season"

USDA's Data on Food Insecurity

The USDA's reports over the last four years paint a clear picture of the growing issue. In 2020, 13.8 million households were affected. In 2021, it was 13.5 million, and in 2022, it rose to 17 million. The most recent data shows that in 2023, the number has reached a staggering 18 million households. These numbers highlight the urgent need for assistance. 2: Such a significant increase in the number of food-insecure households is a cause for concern. It indicates that more and more families are struggling to put food on the table, even during the holiday season when one might expect a bit of respite.

Community Food Bank's Work

The Community Food Bank of Central Alabama plays a crucial role in addressing this issue. They collaborate with over 300 distribution partners, demonstrating their extensive reach and commitment. Development Director Ginger Pegues emphasizes that one in six people in our area do not have enough food, and a major factor is the continuous rise in grocery store prices. 2: During the holiday season, the food bank ramps up its distributions to meet the heightened demand. As Pegues stated, to actually fulfill the need for food insecurity in Central Alabama, they need to distribute 44 million meals. Last year, they managed to distribute 21 million meals, but there is still a long way to go as the need continues to grow.

Holiday Food Box Distribution

On Thursday at 9 a.m. at the Talladega Superspeedway, the food bank will be giving away 500 holiday food boxes. This is a first-come, first-served opportunity for those in need. It provides a glimmer of hope during the holiday season. 2: By offering these food boxes, the food bank is directly helping families have a more festive and nourishing holiday. It shows that there is support available for those who are struggling.

Finding Nearby Distribution Centers

If you don't live close to the Talladega Superspeedway distribution, you can check out the food bank's Find Free Food tab. This allows you to search for distribution locations near your home, making it easier for you to access the assistance you need. 2: With this convenient tool, more people can find the help they require and ensure that their families have enough to eat during this challenging time.Get news alerts in the Apple App Store and Google Play Store or subscribe to our email newsletter here.Copyright 2024 WBRC. All rights reserved.

As obesity rates continue their upward trajectory, the search for effective and safe weight loss solutions becomes increasingly urgent. Many are now looking towards prescription medicines like Ozempic, but with concerns over significant side effects, accessibility, and cost. In this context, the research from the University of South Australia presents a groundbreaking natural alternative.

Unlock the Power of Natural Obesity Treatment with InuMCT

Introduction to the InuMCT Microcapsules

The University of South Australia researchers have developed a remarkable food-grade, natural solution for obesity. Engineered from a plant fibre coating (inulin) and a combination of coconut and palm kernel oils (medium chain triglyceride – or MCT – oils), these InuMCT microcapsules offer a unique approach. Through in vivo testing over a 21-day period, they have shown remarkable effects. 1: These microcapsules bring about a significant overall reduction in weight gain when used against a western diet. Western diets, typically high in fats, are a major contributor to obesity. The InuMCT microcapsules help combat this by influencing metabolic processes and reducing the impact of harmful dietary factors. 2: They also lower blood sugar by 15%, an essential factor in managing obesity and diabetes. This reduction in blood sugar levels is a crucial aspect of their action, as it helps regulate the body's energy balance and reduces the risk of related complications.

Impact on Metabolic Markers

In addition to weight loss and blood sugar control, the InuMCT microcapsules have a significant impact on metabolic markers. They reduce inflammatory markers by 78%, which is a key contributor to obesity-related and other diseases. Inflammation plays a crucial role in the development and progression of various health issues, and these microcapsules help mitigate its harmful effects. 1: The reduction in liver enzyme levels by up to 47% is another notable benefit. High liver enzymes are often linked to poor diet and obesity, and by addressing this, the InuMCT microcapsules contribute to overall liver health. 2: They also improve protective gut bacteria by 8.3-fold. Protective gut bacteria are essential for maintaining a healthy gut lining and preventing 'leaky gut' syndrome. By enhancing the population of these beneficial bacteria, the microcapsules support the gut's natural defense mechanisms.

Global Significance and Future Directions

In Australia, obesity affects a large proportion of adults and children. Globally, one in eight people are obese, and the associated health risks are significant. The InuMCT microcapsules offer a promising solution to this global epidemic. 1: UniSA PhD researcher Amin Ariaee emphasizes the importance of this natural approach for metabolic health and obesity-related conditions. Obesity is a multifaceted problem that extends beyond weight gain, and these microcapsules address the underlying issues. 2: Senior researcher Dr Paul Joyce highlights the holistic approach of combining InuMCT with other obesity treatments. By targeting obesity and metabolic disease while concurrently supporting gut health, they offer a viable option for managing these conditions.The researchers now plan to investigate InuMCT's potential as an adjunct therapy in clinical settings, further exploring its benefits and applications. This pioneering research provides a new perspective on gut-based therapies and offers a natural option for managing obesity.