DC Central Kitchen Releases Manual on Introducing Produce into Food Deserts

April 6, 2015; Christian Science Monitor

In March of 2015, NPQ reported on the creation of D.C. Central Kitchen’s “Healthy Corners,” convenience stores in Washington, D.C., that are well equipped to sell produce. The 67 stores in the D.C. area sold more than 140,000 pieces of produce within 10 months, and according to the Christian Science Monitor, “D.C. Central Kitchen estimates Healthy Corners generated $79,826 in revenue for participating stores that year.”

D.C. Central Kitchen was also willing to help other cities begin similar programs, so in February, they released a manual to help nonprofits in other areas replicate the program. The guidebook, “Turning the Corner: the Inside Guide to Fighting Food Deserts,” is free and can be requested by contacting the D.C. Central Kitchen director of nutrition and community outreach, Janell Walker.

The guidebook covers “staffing requirements and budgets, offers marketing suggestions, and outlines every step, including building partnerships with store owners and providing them with refrigeration units.”

More information can be found at the D.C. Central Kitchen website.—Erin Lamb

About the author

Erin Shankie

Erin received her Bachelor’s degree in dietetics from Michigan State, her Master’s degree in education-instruction from Central Michigan University, and her graduate certificate in Leadership and Diversity Management in Sport from the University of Connecticut. In 2014, she founded ER Sports and Leadership, a company focused on creating leaders who embrace unique perspectives, set goals, and foster positive team culture. Her work includes diverse groups of individuals in both the nonprofit and for-profit sectors focused on working with teams to provide organizational development as well as build leadership and communication skills. Her other roles include working as Engagement Specialist with the YWCA of Greater Flint, Assistant Governor for Rotary Area 7 in District 6330, and a training coach at Genesys Athletic Club. She has been trained in Sports-Based Youth Development (SBYD), nonprofit leadership and facilitation, and is an ACE certified health coach. She has been a presenter for the Michigan Association for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (MAHPERD), the American Alliance for Health, Physical Education, Recreation and Dance (AAHPERD), the National Association for Health and Fitness, the Michigan Nonprofit Association, and was featured in Today's Dietitian magazine.

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