COMMUNITY IMPACT
We're creating a healthier Brownsville, through fresh food access, wellness education, and community
Environmental Analysis
The Rio Grande Valley faces significant challenges related to food insecurity, chronic disease, and limited access to affordable, nutritious food. High poverty rates, unemployment, and economic hardship continue to affect many families, while convenience stores and processed food options often outnumber places where residents can purchase fresh, healthy produce.
These barriers contribute to some of the region's highest rates of obesity and diabetes. In Cameron County, more than half of adults are overweight or obese, and nearly one in three is living with diabetes conditions that place a significant burden on both families and the local healthcare system.
While programs such as SNAP, WIC, school meal programs, and local food banks provide essential support, many residents still face obstacles including transportation challenges, language barriers, and difficulty navigating available resources. Addressing these issues requires community collaboration, increased access to healthy food, and continued investment in education and sustainable local food systems.
Obesity
Obesity remains one of the most pressing health challenges in Cameron County. More than 50% of adults are overweight or obese, increasing their risk for chronic conditions such as diabetes, heart disease, and high blood pressure. Expanding access
to healthy foods, nutrition education, and active lifestyles is essential to improving
long-term community health.
Poverty
Poverty continues to be a major challenge in Cameron County, where more than 30% of families live below the federal poverty line. Limited financial resources can make it difficult to access healthy food, healthcare, reliable transportation, and other essentials, contributing to long-term health disparities and reduced quality of life.
Accessibility
Access to healthy food
and essential resources remains a challenge for many families in Cameron County. While programs such as SNAP, WIC, school meal programs, and local food banks provide critical support, barriers like transportation, language differences, and limited nearby grocery options can prevent residents from receiving the assistance
they need.
A Comprehensive Solution
Addressing food insecurity in the Rio Grande Valley requires a collaborative, long-term approach. At Brownsville Wellness Coalition, we work to strengthen local food systems by expanding access to fresh, healthy food, investing in sustainable food infrastructure, providing culturally relevant nutrition education, and building strong partnerships with schools, healthcare providers, nonprofits, local farmers, and community organizations. Together, these efforts create lasting solutions that improve health and strengthen our communities.
254,012
People accessed healthy food
9,341
Pounds of fresh food harvested
1,066
Community garden participants
42
Nutrition education classes
600+
Nutrition education graduates
412
Hours of educational programming