HDHHS Farmers Markets

The Houston Department of Health and Human Services has kicked off an initiative to set up farmers markets in underserved, inner-city neighborhoods. The initiative aims to provide easier access to affordable fruits and vegetables in Houston communities considered food deserts because they are underserved by grocery stores and other fresh food outlets. HDHHS organizes monthly farmers markets in the neighborhoods of Sunnyside, Magnolia and Fifth Ward, three communities where fresh food is not readily available.

Fruits and vegetables help prevent or delay the start of chronic diseases such as diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, cancer and respiratory and bone diseases. However, behavioral surveys indicate that 74 percent of Houston-area residents eat less than the recommended five daily servings of fruits and vegetables.

Fruits and vegetables can also help people lose or maintain a healthy weight. In recent years, obesity and overweight rates have risen in Houston for both adults and children. Surveys show 67 percent of adults were overweight or obese in 2008, compared to 61 percent in 2002. Among youths, 34 percent of high school students were overweight or obese in 2007, compared to 29 percent in 1999.

Slide show of farmers market at Magnolia Multi-Service Center

Slide show of farmers markets kickoff at Fifth Ward Multi-Service Center

For more information about the farmers markets, contact 832-393-4867.