Access to Healthy Food in Los Angeles County
Food insecurity is a pressing issue in Los Angeles County, with about 1 in 4 households affected in 2025, a rate significantly higher than the national average of 13.7%. Low-income residents feel the pinch even more, with more than one-third facing food insecurity. The lack of access to nutritious food is a major concern, with nearly 29% of LA residents struggling to find consistent sources of healthy options.
Community Focus: Keisha Daniels’ Efforts
Keisha Daniels, a Watts business owner, is dedicated to changing this narrative. After overcoming setbacks and closures, she reopened her store as a means to provide healthier food options directly in her community. Daniels emphasizes the importance of accessibility, stating, “I want to be a part of that change,” especially in addressing obesity rates among African Americans.
In her store, she offers free fruits, encouraging children to take what they need. “I say, ‘Hey, you want a tangerine?’” she notes, reflecting her commitment to community health and well-being.
Research Insights
Research from USC Dornsife highlights the essential role of food access in low-income neighborhoods. Kayla de la Haye, a professor at USC and UCLA, stresses that the challenge lies not in food scarcity but in distribution. “We’re not a food insecure country; we have more calories than we need,” she explains, pointing out that about a third of the nation’s food supply goes to waste.
Community Voices
Local residents, like Gerald Fitch, express gratitude for the store’s presence. “This is the only store within about a five-block radius,” he shares, emphasizing how essential it is for those without transportation.
Inspiring the Next Generation
Daniels aims to motivate others, especially during Women’s History Month. She encourages emerging entrepreneurs with the words, “Your goal is greater than your struggle.” With a focus on community health and access, Daniels is committed to making a lasting impact, proving that a business can thrive while serving its community.
Creating a reliable source of healthy food in her neighborhood, Daniels underscores the importance of food accessibility as part of a broader solution to combat food insecurity in Los Angeles County.
