Obesity Related Policy, Systems and Environmental Changes in Three New Orleans Neighborhoods

Background:  Access to healthy foods and safe physical activity is an issue in many of the underserved neighborhoods in New Orleans. Adults in Orleans parish self-reported that 31.4% were obese, 12.3% had diabetes and less than 24% consumed the recommended amount of fruits and vegetables. Crime was reported to be a top challenge to being active, along with poor park conditions and the lack of family oriented physical activity options. Many areas in New Orleans have become food swamps, which indicate an overabundance of high-energy foods that inundate any healthy food options.

Methods: Utilizing the collective impact model, the Fit NOLA project aims to address barriers to both physical activity and access to healthy foods. By working with partners such as the police department the local farmer’s market and the recreation and development commission, neighborhood residents will be surveyed about their perceptions of park safety, park infrastructure, and access to healthy food options. Based on resident feedback physical activity programming will expand. Diabetic and pregnant residents will receive fruit and vegetable vouchers to redeem at the local farmer’s market. Recipients will be monitored to determine consumption of healthier food options.  Results/Conclusions:  Preliminary findings will demonstrate the impact of enhancing access to physical activity opportunities and healthy food options. Data will also demonstrate point- of- sale consumption of healthy snacks at park venues. Additionally, findings will reveal community perceptions to improved access.