Team Gobbler (DNR Online: TR)

Food accessibility and insecurity in the New River Valley

Synopsis

For this project, the team decided to cover food insecurity and accessibility on both national and regional levels. Much of the coverage was specific to the New River Valley (NRV) and its relationship with the issue, but also rural areas in general as much of the NRV is rural. Furthermore, this website serves as a source of information for food-insecure individuals to learn where they can receive accommodations, and for NRV residents to understand the causes of food insecurity as it relates to them and the possible solutions.

Project Stories

Supporting SNAP through farmers markets

Blacksburg Farmers Market and local farmers work together to support those using the SNAP program. Click below to read more about how locals are helping their community thrive.

Local Blacksburg restaurants adapt amid soaring food prices

Local Blacksburg restaurants continue to be met with a surge in prices as the overall cost of food continues to rise worldwide. Click below to read more about how Blacksburg businesses adapt to provide affordable food to the community.

Access to fresh foods in rural areas

Over the past decade, Dollar Stores have been the fastest-growing food retail channel in more agricultural regions of the U.S. targeting lower-income households. Click to learn more about the rise of convenience store grocers, and the gaps in nutrition caused by them.

The effect of food waste in the New River Valley

Food waste is an issue that has taken root throughout the United States, but the New River Valley faces its own unique challenges and effects surrounding it. As such, there may be some ways to combat the excess waste that is produced while also addressing the overarching problem of food insecurity and access.

The importance of food pantries: a close-up on the NRV

Now more than ever, families and individuals are in need of food pantries to help feed themselves — and the NRV is no exception. With more people in need of food as prices rise, local food pantries in the NRV are offering services to all who need it.

The state of food accessibility in Virginia

One of the biggest issues faced by Americans is food insecurity. A large percentage of the United States population, and Virginia specifically, do not have the luxury of knowing where their next meal is coming from. This infographic shows the rates of food insecurity in both rural and urban areas of Virginia.