Healthy food retailers—grocery stores; farmers’
markets; cooperatives; mobile markets; and other
vendors of fresh, affordable, nutritious food—are
critical components of healthy, thriving communities.
As the country inches its way out of the Great Recession
and seeks to grow a more sustainable and
equitable economy, ensuring that healthy food is
accessible to all is crucial. Without access to healthy
foods, a nutritious diet and good health are out of
reach. And without grocery stores and other fresh
food retailers, communities are also missing the
commercial vitality that makes neighborhoods
livable and helps local economies thrive.