What is Food Access?
Food access refers to the consistent availability of a wide range of healthy, nutritious food choices. Variables such as geographic proximity, variety of choices, and affordability can impact food access. Other factors, such as housing stability, access to healthcare, and education can influence how individuals perceive their level of access to healthy food options.
Across the SRPEDD region, transportation options can impact the variety of healthy food options available to our communities. Many of the region's most substantial food hubs require a personal vehicle and are not serviced by public transportation services. Thus, not all individuals within the region have equitable access to healthy food options. Nutritional, affordable foods are integral to strong individual and community health outcomes.
MA / SRPEDD Region Food Access Fast Facts:
- In 2024, 1 in 3 MA households reported experiencing food insecurity at some point in the last 12 months. This number jumps to 46% of households in Bristol County and 30% of households in Plymouth County.
- In the last year, 69% of food insecure people had to choose between paying for food and paying for transportation.
- Food insecure people are more likely to experience chronic disease, poor mental health, and greater healthcare costs. Last year, health conditions related to food insecurity accounted for $1.3 Billion in emergency room and hospitalization costs for Medicaid.
- In 2022, Plymouth and Bristol County accounted for more than 23% of the state's total agricultural sales (across crops, livestock, poultry, and other products).
