Center for Great Neighborhoods launches Healthy Corner Store Initiative

The Center for Great Neighborhoods recently launched the Healthy Corner Store Initiative to give Covington residents access to healthy food choices.
 
The Center is partnering with Kenton County Plan4Health (KCP4H) and four corner stores — Kimmy’s Korner, Bill’s Food Mart, Gutierrez Deli and Bob’s Food Market — to increase the amount of fresh, frozen and canned fruits and vegetables available for Covington residents. The stores were chosen based on the amount of families living below the poverty level in the area and the stores’ proximity to local schools.
 
“Kentucky is at the bottom 10 percent of most health indicators, and Kenton County is no exception,” says Kate Esarey, program manager for community development. “According to the USDA’s Food Access Research Atlas, 7 percent of Kenton County residents are considered to have limited access to healthy foods. We want to make sure every Covington resident has access to healthy foods, and we’ve formed some strategic partnerships to help us reach this goal.”
 
The initiative will also encourage students at local Covington schools to choose healthy snacks by providing them with Healthy Bucks they can exchange for snacks like fruits and vegetables.
 
“We want to teach children in Covington how to make good and healthy eating choices to help fuel them with energy, grow strong and develop good habits,” Esarey says. “The stores we’ve partnered with are dedicated to providing healthier food and invested in their communities.”
 
Do Good:

• Learn more about the Healthy Corner Store Initiative.

• Help support the Center for Great Neigborhoods by making a donation.

• Find your own ways to be healthy by choosing fruits and vegetables.