Healthy Food for Rural Communities: A Conversation with Brenda Williams

Small Talk with Communities Unlimited

Join us as we pull up a chair with Brenda Williams, Healthy Foods Coordinator at Communities Unlimited. Get ready to unpack the pressing issue of food insecurity in rural communities, and the unique challenges faced by those living off the beaten path. We dive into how Brenda is championing for better access to fresh, nutritious produce from small-scale growers.
In our chat, we delve into the world of local food initiatives in schools. Brenda’s expertise and passion shine through as she takes us on a journey of working alongside small-scale growers and community initiatives. We shed light on their successful Local Food Purchasing Assistance Agreement Program and Local Food for Schools Program. Plus, you’ll get a glimpse into a unique partnership with a local pork farmer that's changing the food landscape in North Little Rock School District.
We round off our time with Brenda by exploring her personal journey to Communities Unlimited and her commitment to tackling food insecurity in small rural communities. Hear about her vision for farm-to-school initiatives and how they can nourish these marginalized communities. Brenda also shares exciting details about their collaboration with the Arkansas Community Foundation, which enabled a free farmer's market during the COVID pandemic. So sit back, listen in, and get ready to be inspired by Brenda’s passion and dedication to increasing access to local, healthy food.

Luvut

1. Healthy Food for Rural Communities: A Conversation with Brenda Williams (00:00:00)

2. Access to Healthy Foods in Rural (00:00:02)

3. Facilitating Local Food Initiatives in Schools (00:05:24)

4. Addressing Food Insecurity in Rural Communities (00:13:51)

5. Food Insecurity and Local Produce Access (00:24:04)