Uncovering the Realities of Hamilton's Food Landscape: A Community-Driven Survey Uncovers Opportunities for Sustainable Change

Go Green Hamilton, a community-driven initiative, has launched a comprehensive survey to assess the state of the city's food system. The anonymous 25-question survey, open until the end of the year, aims to shed light on the challenges and opportunities within Hamilton's food landscape, empowering the community to shape a more equitable and sustainable future.

Empowering Hamilton's Community to Cultivate a Healthier Future

Assessing Nutrition, Economic Well-Being, and Environmental Impact

The survey examines four key areas of Hamilton's food system: nutrition and food security, economic well-being, territorial equity, and environmental protection. By gathering insights from residents, the initiative seeks to identify barriers to accessing healthy and affordable food, as well as gauge the community's interest in resources such as free cooking classes and community gardens. This multifaceted approach aims to uncover the systemic issues that impact food access and overall community health.

Inclusive Collaboration Drives Meaningful Change

The survey, available in both English and Spanish, is the first phase of a larger project that brings together a diverse coalition of partners. These include Miami University Hamilton, Hamilton HUGS, the YMCA, Jee Foods, Hamilton City Schools, Kettering Health, and the City of Hamilton. By fostering this collaborative effort, the initiative aims to ensure that the voices and experiences of all community members are represented in the assessment process.

Leveraging Data to Secure Funding and Enact Positive Change

The survey data will not only provide a comprehensive understanding of Hamilton's food landscape but also serve as a valuable resource for securing future funding opportunities. As Go Green Hamilton's volunteer services and community engagement manager, Gambrell explains, "We know that there are funding options out there, both private and public ― millions of dollars ― but in order to access those grants, we have to have the data to back it up." This strategic approach empowers the community to identify and address the most pressing needs, ultimately paving the way for sustainable and equitable solutions.

Enhancing Food Security Through Community Engagement

Following the initial survey, the project will move into its second phase, which involves conducting focus group sessions called "Food for Thoughts." These sessions will invite community members to share their personal experiences with food insecurity and its impact on their lives. Participants will be provided with a free meal, fostering a collaborative and inclusive environment where diverse perspectives can be heard and understood.

A Call to Action: Hamilton's Residents Empowered to Shape their Food Future

As Mayor Pat Moeller aptly stated, "I think it's a great assessment and things we need to know about." This sentiment echoes the sentiment of community leaders, who recognize the importance of this initiative in addressing the pressing issues surrounding food access and security. By actively participating in the survey and engaging in the subsequent focus group discussions, Hamilton's residents have the power to shape a more equitable and sustainable food landscape for generations to come.