Cultural Recognition and Food Programming: The Cultural Inclusivity of Community Supported Agriculture in Urban, Low-Income, African American Communities

Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) is becoming an increasingly popular means to distribute food in urban areas. These models provide an enticing alternative to traditional retail and industrial systems that have failed to serve many low-income communities. By connecting consumers directly to local food sources, CSA programs can provide a healthful, ecologically sustainable model for food consumption. Yet, efforts to improve access to healthy and sustainably produced food through direct farm to consumer marketing have generally not been well evaluated (Neff et al 2009). The literature shows that participation in low-income, African American communities is low compared to middle and high income white communities. Such data speaks to the need to investigate whether cultural factors may account for low participation in these target communities. This thesis raises questions of cultural consonance between food programming and target communities, and the effectiveness of CSA programs in urban areas.;Data collection includes qualitative interviews with six programs that have stated food justice aims targeting urban, low-income, African American communities. By exploring program development and CSA program modifications, we see how program practices reflect community cultural frameworks. This investigation aims to inform those who have interest in improving the equitable and sustainable access to fresh produce to food insecure communities. Actionable recommendations provide a framework for CSA program managers to question their preparedness to serve the food access needs of African American communities.