IMPROVING FOOD ACCESS FOR BLACK RESIDENTS IN UNDERINVESTED AREAS OF GRANVILLE AND VANCE COUNTIES

<span style="font-weight: 400;">Food insecurity is a systemic issue within the built environment of Granville and Vance (GV) counties, North Carolina (NC), that has pervasive negative effects on residents&rsquo; health outcomes. Analysis of GV counties&rsquo; built environment identified food insecurity as a priority to address. The team performed contextual analyses to gain comprehensive understanding of the impact food access has on residents, and what factors influence that relationship. As a result, the team identified several recommendations to reduce food insecurity while prioritizing equity-centered, community-driven solutions. Through establishment of a food resource directory, expansion of the NC Department of Transportation&rsquo;s Microtransit program, and creation of a food insecurity steering committee, access to adequate nutrition would improve for GV counties&rsquo; residents. These efforts, in combination with local partnerships and stakeholder collaboration, can reduce barriers to food access and assistance programs. Additionally, these recommendations form a strong foundation for future improvements to be made.</span>