joanne castro

 
 

plank road food plaza

Food inequality is an issue that stems from structural inequalities that are centered around income, education, nutritional knowledge, and race especially in neighborhoods around the country. Plank Road serves as a prime example of this, as it has been occupied by predominantly black communities which points to the fact that they have fewer stores and poorer quality of food compare to most white neighborhoods. The scarcity of not only the food source, but also the amount of cultural relevance of food options in stores has devastatingly affected the diet and the appetite of many people in the area thus also affecting their lack of exposure to nature and not knowing what it can provide for us and how it can positive contribute to a healthier food source. Therefore it is imperative to create a space for experts to equip people in relevant ways to prepare common fresh ingredients that supports the well-being of the community: all while creating a place for all families to come together and enjoy a unique celebration of food can change the approach of communities in solving “food barriers.”

The Urban Food Hub in Plank Road formulates a central plaza that invites people from all neighborhood to come together and experience a healthier, richer, and more culturally diverse food options. This ultimately brings benefits to the future of the community. The idea is to bring in a teaching kitchen, outside gardens for viewers to see food growth, green roofs, a central hub of food trucks, a fresh market to bring healthier and affordable choice for the community, classrooms, and a library to educate people. Many families can obtain an education in nutrition while fostering the growth of local businesses. This allows families to embrace the culture of their neighborhoods by creating healthier recipes that uniquely represents and culturally serves the community.