Access to Healthy Food

The Sixth Social Determinant of Health, access to healthy food options, plays a crucial role in determining overall health outcomes. It encompasses the availability, affordability, and accessibility of nutritious food in a community. Limited access to healthy food can lead to poor dietary choices, contributing to chronic diseases such as obesity, diabetes, and heart disease.

Community Health Workers (CHWs) support clients in overcoming barriers to healthy food access through various strategies. They engage in outreach to educate individuals about nutrition and the importance of a balanced diet, helping clients make informed food choices.

CHWs often assist in identifying local resources, such as food banks, community gardens, and farmers' markets, which provide affordable and fresh produce. They also advocate for clients by connecting them with government assistance programs, such as SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program), to ensure they can afford healthy food options. Additionally, CHWs may facilitate workshops or cooking classes that empower clients with skills to prepare healthy meals, thus fostering a culture of wellness within the community. By addressing the systemic issues related to food access, CHWs play a vital role in promoting health equity and improving the overall well-being of the populations they serve.