A healthier pantry - Morning Journal News

A healthier pantry - Morning Journal News

Editor:

According to the Health and Hunger in America 2014 report presented by Feeding America, over half (58 percent) of the households that access food pantries have at least one member with high blood pressure. One-third of the households have a member with diabetes, and more than three in four households (79 percent) reported purchasing inexpensive, unhealthy foods to make ends meet.

Health disparities are more common among low income areas as well as in Appalachian communities. Columbiana County lies within the Appalachian region and according to Ohio Development Office of Research, 38.8 percent of the county population have incomes at or below 200 percent of the federal poverty guidelines and many children qualify for free or reduced lunches in our local schools.

Those struggling with food insecurity face the burden of not only getting enough to eat, but also accessing nutrient-rich foods that promote health and help reduce risk of chronic illness.

The Community Action Agency of Columbiana County Inc. recently opened the Healthier Community Pantry at 7860 Lincole Place, Lisbon. The food pantry offers low-income households healthier food options that include whole grains, lean protein items, gluten free products, organic items, and products that are low in fat, sodium, and sugar. They are encouraging patrons with food allergies and chronic illnesses to choose healthy food for themselves by providing them with alternative healthy items when they must turn to a food pantry for assistance.

As the holidays are approaching, and many reach out to help those in need, I ask that you consider donating healthier food items to the local pantries in Columbiana County. For more information on how to donate to the Community Action Healthier Community Pantry, call 330-424-4013. Let’s work together to not only make it a happy holiday season but also a healthy one.

Alyssa Grimm

Lisbon