This research project set out to determine whether a farmers' market can serve as an effective intervention in the prevention of chronic diseases... » More

This research project set out to determine whether a farmers' market can serve as an effective intervention in the prevention of chronic diseases such as diabetes and obesity through expansion of access to fresh fruits and vegetables in communities with high levels of food insecurity. The use of a farmers' market as a community-based health intervention appeared to be a successful tool in the community of City Heights. Implementation of a farmers' market in similar communities may also help improve the health perceptions of a community and improve fruit and vegetable access and consumption. Findings indicated that the market improved access to fresh fruits and vegetables for market patrons and promoted a healthy community culture which helps market visitors to pursue a change in their health outcomes. While fruit and vegetable consumption is still not at CDC recommended levels for the community, the effort to change eating behaviors and make decisions based on health were identified as fostered by the market by respondents. This shows the importance of the market as a educational tool in terms of serving individuals based on locus of control and self-efficacy. Additionally, the Fresh Fund matching incentive program increased access to fruits and vegetables each month for its recipients. The market improved access to fresh fruits and vegetables in a spatial context and in relation to the consumption of fruits and vegetables. A long-term assessment can confirm whether the changes in behaviors indeed improve health indicators and lower rates of chronic diseases.

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