Sowing Solutions: Tackling Food Insecurity with 'Food Without Limits’
Food Security in Metro Atlanta
Food security remains one of the most pressing issues in Metro Atlanta, affecting thousands of individuals and families across the region.1,2 In certain neighborhoods, finding fresh, affordable, and nutritious food can be a challenge due to the existence of food deserts—areas where residents have limited access to grocery stores or markets offering healthy food options. Additionally, for students, food insecurity often leads to lower math and reading scores, increased absences and tardiness, and a decreased likelihood of graduating high school.2 Addressing this issue requires empowering communities to take control of their food sources. This is where our ‘Food Without Limits’ build comes into play.
What is ‘Food Without Limits’?
Our ‘Food Without Limits’ build aims to equip students with the knowledge and tools to grow their own food while understanding the significance of food sovereignty. The program includes a series of STE(A)M interactive modules designed to engage participants in hands-on activities that highlight the benefits of owning their own food. Here's a glimpse into what this build entails:
Self-Watering Planters: Students create self-watering planters using recycled water bottles to take home. This simple yet effective Maker project not only teaches them the basics of gardening but also emphasizes the importance of sustainability and resourcefulness.
Community Herb Planter: In addition to the individual planters, students work together to build a larger wooden herb planter that will remain at the program site. This fosters a sense of collaboration while contributing to a lasting resource that benefits the entire community.
Tool Safety and Empowerment: Throughout the build, students learn how to safely use tools such as compound miter saws, drills, and craft knives. This focus on safety ensures that everyone can participate confidently while gaining valuable skills in using equipment that could serve them in future projects.
Why Food Sovereignty Matters
One of the core discussions in the ‘Food Without Limits’ build revolves around food sovereignty—the concept of owning and controlling one's food production.3 In communities affected by food deserts, growing your own food can be a powerful way to overcome barriers to accessing healthy, fresh produce. ‘Food Without Limits’ allows students to gain practical skills, and also a deeper understanding of how food is grown, why it matters, and how they can be part of a larger solution to food insecurity.
Resources for Those in Need
Food deserts are a significant issue in many parts of Metro Atlanta, where entire neighborhoods lack sufficient grocery stores, farmers' markets, or other outlets that provide affordable and nutritious food. We understand that food insecurity is a complex issue that requires both community efforts and access to immediate support. For those looking for assistance, here are some resources in Metro Atlanta that offer support for individuals and families facing food insecurity:
Join Us in Building a Solution!
If you’re interested in supporting us in our fight against food insecurity, stay tuned for more details on our upcoming sessions. Together, we can create a future where food is truly without limits.
For more information on how to get involved, please contact us at info@steamtruck.org or visit our website.