PUBLIC TESTIMONY
Testimony by Oliver Gonzalez-Yoakum, Research Associate at Laurie M. Tisch Center For Food Education and Policy, Teachers College, Columbia University
1:58:55
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112 sec
Oliver Gonzalez-Yoakum, a research associate at the Laurie M. Tisch Center For Food Education and Policy, provides testimony on the importance of access to fresh produce and the potential of urban agriculture in New York City. He emphasizes the health benefits of fruit and vegetable consumption and the current inequalities in access to nutritious food across the city.
- Highlights the work of the Food Ed Hub coalition in providing equitable food and nutrition education for NYC students and educators
- Discusses how urban agriculture can address challenges of food access, environmental sustainability, and community cohesion
- Introduces upcoming testimonies from colleagues and community organizations supporting the proposed bill
Oliver Gonzalez-Yoakum
1:58:55
Good afternoon, and thank you for the opportunity to provide testimony to the committee on economic development.
1:59:00
I'm Oliver Gonzalez Yocum, a registered dietitian and research associate at the Lori m Tisch Center For Food Education and Policy at Teachers College, Columbia University.
1:59:08
I live in I live in Hell's Kitchen, and I'm a member of District 3.
1:59:13
Thanks for all the work you do in our community.
1:59:13
I would say that to Eric if you were here.
1:59:14
I'm joined today by members of our Food Add Hub, a coalition uplifted and strengthened by the city council's support over the years.
1:59:24
The hub works to provide equitable food and nutrition education for all New York City students and educators.
1:59:30
We are profoundly grateful to city council for their unwavering support in our endeavors.
1:59:35
Access to to fresh, nutritious produce is a foundational need for both individual and community health.
1:59:41
Research consistently demonstrates that diets rich in fruits and vegetables are linked to longer lifespans, reduced rates of chronic disease, and greater resilience against health disparities.
1:59:51
Yet, in a city as dynamic and diverse as ours, this fundamental resource is not shared equally.
1:59:57
Barriers like income, geography, and infrastructure prevent many New Yorkers from obtaining fresh produce, impacting health outcomes and quality of life.
2:00:06
However, urban agriculture emerges as one of the many novel solutions to these challenges.
2:00:11
Converting underutilized spaces into urban farms could bring fresh, affordable produce in the areas where it's needed most.
2:00:17
Creating green spaces can support environmental sustainability, foster community cohesion, and bolster economic opportunity.
2:00:25
These gardens can become hubs where New Yorkers not only access healthy food but also build deeper connections to their communities and environments.
2:00:32
My colleagues at the Tisch Food Center will provide brief comments followed by insights from organizations and community members already leading impactful work in support of this bill and heading up the charge to increase access to fresh, nutritious, and delicious fruits and veggies.
2:00:46
Thank you.
