L.A. ‘food desert’ program will expand to Harbor City, Watts

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The Los Angeles City Council Tuesday approved a motion seeking to expand a food program to the Harbor region and South Los Angeles to address the lack of access in so-called “food deserts.” The motion seeks to expand the city’s Healthy Neighborhood Market Network, a program intended to ensure access to fresh produce within a half mile of residents in Watts and Harbor City. The council unanimously approved the motion, introduced by Councilman Tim McOsker, who represents Council District 15, which includes the two communities.

According to the motion, many areas of the Harbor region and South L.A. have a high concentration of corner markets, liquor stores and fast-food restaurants, but few supermarkets. “Food deserts primarily impact low-income neighborhoods and communities of color and infringe upon access to healthy diet options in these areas,” the motion reads.

The HNMN program began in 2016. It provides store owners with training and guidance as well as upgrades to their stores, aiming to transform neighborhood markets into places with healthy and affordable food. The motion seeks to expand the city’s Healthy Neighborhood Market Network, a program intended to ensure access to fresh produce within a half mile of residents in Watts and Harbor City. The council unanimously approved the motion, introduced by Councilman Tim

According to the motion, many areas of the Harbor region and South L.A. have a high concentration of corner markets, liquor stores and fast-food restaurants, but few supermarkets. The program has completed six projects, provided training to more than 50 store owners, helped increase average produce revenues by 124%, and increased average weekly profit for participating markets by $1,453, according to the motion.

“These markets are providing critical access for residents in these areas to healthier food options and increasing the economic vitality of their communities,” the motion reads. “By expanding the existing program into underserved areas of Council District 15, the HNMN program can enhance food options in these communities and build toward a healthier future for all Angelenos.”

The Economic and Workforce Development Department will provide a report back at a future date with a plan to expand the program to CD 15, with a focus on the neighborhoods of Harbor City and Watts.

The department will also collaborate with McOsker’s office and local stakeholders to identify possible markets or sites to roll out the program, and ensure community and operation support for participants.