Consuming fruits and vegetables regularly is an important part of a healthy diet. The Dietary Guidelines for Americans (2015) recommends that people consume at least 2.5 cups of vegetables and 2 cups of fruits daily, based on a general 2000 kcal diet. However, despite the scientific support for consumers to consume more fruits and vegetables, the average American adult eats well below recommended intakes, and consumption is even lower among low-income populations. Many factors contribute to low fruits and vegetable intake; however, among low-income individuals, lack of knowledge about healthy foods, lack of availability and access to fruits and vegetables, poor produce quality, and budget constraints are the most common barriers.

The Boone County Extension Service’s horticulture department and the 4-H department partnered with the Kelly Elementary Family Resource Center to offer six weekly produce baskets to 19 low-income families. The horticulture department grew the produce on Extension property, Master Gardeners picked and washed the produce, and the 4-H department offered activities for the families to do together. In addition, each basket contained recipes to use with the produce they were given and nutritional materials, which 100% stated when surveyed, were read.

Based on the Kentucky Farmers Market Price report during the time the baskets were given out the total value of produce for the six week program was $3, 412.00 with a weekly average being $32.33. The baskets held a variety of produce, which gave the families an opportunity to try new foods. A written survey was conducted and 100% of the families that participated stated they tried at least one new recipe.

Nutritious food should be for everyone. It sustains our well-being and makes it possible for us to pursue happy, healthy lives. But nutritious food is not always available—or affordable—especially for the millions of American families in low-income neighborhoods, struggling daily to make ends meet. Due to cost and access, fresh fruits and vegetables are a luxury many Americans can’t spare to indulge.