Produce Box Program for Food Insecurity
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if a new food pantry program, the produce box program, can improve access to fresh produce and enhance diet quality for East Flatbush residents. Participants will receive a weekly box of locally grown vegetables, customized for the community, over 20 weeks. The trial is ideal for adults who speak English or Haitian Creole, can visit the Brooklyn Center for Quality Life weekly, and are willing to participate in the study. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to community health while gaining access to fresh produce.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for this trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It seems focused on providing access to fresh produce rather than medication changes.
What prior data suggests that this produce box program is safe?
Research has shown that produce box programs are generally safe. These programs aim to provide fresh fruits and vegetables to improve diet quality and ensure adequate food supply. In a large study on produce prescriptions, similar to this program, participants in 22 locations across the United States experienced positive health benefits without major safety issues. Another study found that these programs increased food security by 5.5%. Only a small number of people reported wasting the produce, indicating that most participants found the program helpful and easy to use.
These findings suggest that produce box programs are safe and well-received by participants. No reports indicate negative effects from consuming the provided produce.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the produce box program because it tackles food insecurity by directly providing fresh, locally-grown produce to the community. Unlike typical food assistance programs that may rely on non-perishable items, this initiative offers weekly deliveries of fresh produce tailored specifically to the nutritional needs and cultural preferences of the East Flatbush community. This approach not only aims to improve access to healthy food options but also supports local agriculture, creating a sustainable loop that benefits both residents and local farmers.
What evidence suggests that the produce box program is effective for improving food access and diet quality?
Research has shown that produce box programs can help people eat more fruits and vegetables, which is important for a healthier diet. One study found that participants were satisfied with the produce box program and increased their fruit and vegetable intake as a result. This trial will evaluate a produce box program tailored to the East Flatbush community, aiming to make healthy food more accessible by reducing the number of grocery store trips needed. Another study found that these programs can increase spending on healthy foods and overall consumption, especially for those receiving food assistance. These findings suggest that produce box programs could effectively improve access to healthy food and diet quality in communities facing food insecurity.36789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Madison N LeCroy, PhD
Principal Investigator
NYU Langone Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for residents of East Flatbush facing food insecurity. It aims to help those who struggle to access or afford enough nutritious food. The study will evaluate the effectiveness of a client-choice food pantry program offering locally grown produce.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Intervention
Participants receive locally grown produce weekly through a client-choice food pantry model
Evaluation
Surveys and Veggie Meter assessments are conducted to evaluate food security, fruit and vegetable intake, and social connection
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any long-term changes in food security and dietary habits
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Produce box program
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
NYU Langone Health
Lead Sponsor
National Center for Advancing Translational Sciences (NCATS)
Collaborator