Healthy Food Financing Initiative

About the Program

Category: Community and Economic Development (Best in Category)

Year: 2023

The Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) program in El Paso County has been successful in expanding access to healthy and affordable food in underserved areas by providing grants and low-interest loans to businesses and non-profit organizations. The program has also established a mobile farmers market and supported the development of tienditas, small grocery stores in low-income areas. The HFFI program aims to address food insecurity and diet-related illnesses while creating jobs in the food retail industry. By collaborating with community partners and providing health information and nutrition education to individuals and families, the program has helped to reduce the risk of developing diet-related diseases such as obesity, heart disease, and diabetes. Through its innovative approach and commitment to building a stronger and more resilient food system, the HFFI program is making a difference in the lives of vulnerable populations in El Paso County and beyond.