Food From The Heart: Non-Profit Delivers Nutritious Meals
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DALLAS (CBSDFW.COM) - Startup non-profit "Equal Heart" has partnered with United Way of Metropolitan Dallas to end childhood hunger by providing access to nutritious food.
"For some families, getting to a grocery store may be a two hour bus ride, and if you don't have a car, that's a big deal‚" said Chief Strategy and Operating Officer of the United Way of Metropolitan Dallas, Susan Hoff.
The organization has chipped away at the problem of malnutrition, delivering healthy food to families trapped in so called 'food deserts', where access to grocery stores is limited.
"At first, I didn't believe it," said Cynthia (who didn't want CBS11 to report her last name). "This is a blessing, but not just to me but to everybody that lives over here."
The program launched just 10 days ago and has already served some 2000 North Texans. It provides fresh fruit and vegetables, even meat and cheeses to families in need.
Currently serving 16 apartment complexes near the Dallas/Richardson city limits, Equal Heart plans to expand to meet growing demand.
"The only close stores are convenience stores… they can go down there for chips and drinks but, there's no fruits, vegetables or meats," said Director of Community Relations at Equal Heart, Renee Caldwell.
The childhood obesity rate in Dallas is currently at roughly 30 percent. But, supporters hope that every delivery will have a major impact on the families they serve -- one meal at a time.
"It helps a lot because there are a lot of poor people in the area," said Equal Heart client, Eric Salmeron.
Officials told CBS11 that all of the food used is donated and would otherwise end up in a landfill.
Instead it's filling the tables of needy families… strengthening their bodies, easing their minds and warming the hearts of everyone involved.
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