Increase Fruit and Vegetable Consumption of New Mexicans ages 65+ from 5.6% to 7.5%. (2021 American Health Rankings)
Current Value
6
Definition
Story Behind the Curve
These are unprecedented times. Even as the pandemic has made the weaknesses and inequities in our food system more evident, it highlighted the strength of New Mexico’s food system. The pandemic also revealed the potential to expand food and farming businesses and the agricultural economy while creating greater access to food for those who are vulnerable.
Our local food system is supported by a long tradition of small and mid-sized farms and ranches that are part of the state’s agricultural industry that generates billions of dollars in revenue every year, yet 95% of products leave the state. At the same time, hunger and food insecurity have remained persistent challenges in New Mexico for generations.
To address this potential, over 250 New Mexicans came together to work on a large, comprehensive plan to strengthen the connections between food, hunger, and farming in New Mexico. The Food, Farm, and Hunger Initiative supports our commitment to fostering a food system that addresses hunger while improving economic resiliency in New Mexico’s communities.
Partners
Area Agencies on Aging, State and Older Americans Act Senior Service Providers including Tribal Senior Service Providers as well as the Food, Farm and Hunger Coalition.