Ada Beltri, B.S.

Extension Agent – Better Living for Texans, GNHC

Nearly 10% of Texas food deserts are in Cameron, Hidalgo, and Starr Counties. Residents of low-income households living in food deserts cannot access and purchase healthy foods. On the other hand, nutrient-poor foods but high in calories are often plentiful. A food desert is a geographic area where affordable and healthy food is difficult to obtain, particularly for those without access to an automobile. Food deserts also exist in rural areas and low-income communities. Some research links them to diet-related health problems in affected populations. Food deserts are sometimes associated with supermarket shortages and food security.

Current Curriculum

Learn, Grow, Eat, & Go!

Learn, Grow, Eat & GO! is a curriculum that promotes healthy behaviors through hands-on science, math, and language arts experiences. This multifaceted curriculum includes a school/onsite garden, vegetable planting, tasting, and recipe demonstrations. 

Growing & Nourishing Healthy Communities

The Growing and Nourishing Healthy Communities Garden Course (GNHC) teaches adult participants how to grow fruits and vegetables in community and backyard gardens in order to increase access to fresh produce. Part of the Better Living for Texans (BLT) program, the series covers garden location selection, planting, watering techniques, pest control, and composting. The program also includes cooking demonstrations, which show participants how to prepare the produce they harvest.

Project Goal

To increase the Supplementary Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and SNAP-eligible audiences’ access to fresh produce by teaching basic gardening skills that allow and promote the development of backyard and community gardens.