Advocating for Improved Nutrition

A Health Crisis Afflicting Low-Income People

With child and adult obesity rates rising at alarming rates, national experts warn that today’s youth, especially the poor, may be the first generation with a life expectancy shorter than their parents. We are facing an epidemic of diseases including Type 2 diabetes, heart disease, hypertension, strokes and cancer. Like hunger, this health crisis afflicts low-income families and individuals disproportionately. This is because the cheapest and most available foods are often highly processed and high in fats, salt and sugar.

Advocating for Public Policy to Address the Crisis

Local, state and federal advocacy can create policies to support access to nutritious food and physical activity, especially for low-income people. On the Central Coast Second Harvest Food Bank has taken a leadership role in the Nutrition and Fitness Collaborative of the Central Coast and Go For Health!, two organizations dedicated to fighting the obesity health crisis.

To learn what you can do to help, call Lee Mercer, Director of Programs, at 831-722-7110 ext 220 or e-mail Lee@thefoodbank.org.