University Scholars Service Research Projects: The Food Project

Each year, University Scholars dedicate 100 hours to civic engagement activity. This year, Scholars, carried out four different research projects with community partners in the city of Boston. On April 16th, a number of individual students and our research groups presented the results of their year-long service to our community partners, as well as faculty and staff from throughout the university. The event was a tremendous success. Here is more about our second group project.

The Dudley Food Map
Bhavika Chhabra, Samuel Kaplan, Ian McLarney, Daniel Moran, Rachel Shapiro, Larissa Weinstein

University Scholars conducted a com­munity food assessment, mapping the availability of healthy food in the Dudley Square area in order to assist Boston Natural Areas Network and related community groups and organizations in their efforts to expand access to healthy, affordable, culturally-appropriate food in the neighborhood. After conducting a community food survey, the group overlaid their research with information about community gardens, groceries, public transportation routes, and bike paths. The Scholars developed their healthy food criteria in conversation with Maura Beaufait, the Healthy Food Access Coor­dinator from the Bowdoin Geneva Health Center.

Their blog about the research project is a great read and includes links to an online map. Below you will find their printable brochure for distribution.