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01-08-2011 | Original Paper

The Veggie Project: A Case Study of a Multi-component Farmers’ Market Intervention

Authors: Darcy A. Freedman, Bethany A. Bell, Leslie V. Collins

Published in: Journal of Prevention | Issue 3-4/2011

Abstract

This case study provides an in-depth examination of process and feasibility factors associated with the development of a multi-component environmental intervention designed to increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables in four low-income, minority, urban communities with few healthy food retail outlets. The intervention, the Veggie Project, included three components: (a) onsite farmers’ markets, (b) a Super Shopper voucher program, and (c) a Youth Leader Board. We analyzed receipts from sales transactions at the farmers’ markets, close-ended surveys with participants, in-depth interviews with project stakeholders, and journal entries completed by youth participants. Thirty-four farmers’ markets occurred, resulting in 1,101 sales transactions. Financial vouchers were used to purchased 63% of the produce. All of the youth Super Shoppers came to the market at least once and made significantly more purchase transactions than adults. The farmers’ markets were never accessed by 38% of the adult Super Shoppers. The Veggie Project increased access to healthy foods, particularly among youth. More research is warranted to examine the relationship between market use and dietary behaviors as well as other factors (i.e., besides physical and economic) influencing food access among adults.

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Title: The Veggie Project: A Case Study of a Multi-component Farmers’ Market Intervention
Authors: Darcy A. Freedman
Bethany A. Bell
Leslie V. Collins
Publication date: 01-08-2011
Publisher: Springer US
Published in: Journal of Prevention / Issue 3-4/2011
Print ISSN: 2731-5533
Electronic ISSN: 2731-5541
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s10935-011-0245-9

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The Veggie Project: A Case Study of a Multi-component Farmers’ Market Intervention

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