Accessibility in the Syracuse Food Desert

Food insecurity is uncertain access to nutritious food. It is a social justice issue influenced by geographic and demographic factors. Low-income and minority individuals are more prone to be affected by food insecurity. One way is that they may live in food deserts, places where there is limited access to nutritious food sources. It is unjust for anyone to have inadequate access to nutritious food. This study investigated this premise in Syracuse, New York. The selected study area was composed of zip codes 13205, 13207, 13202 and 13210. The food sources for these regions were identified through the database Reference USA. Field work included canvassing each store and conducting a survey of sixty-two basic food items. This assessed quality and selection. The transportation used was also observed. The data gathered was employed in producing various maps through ArcGIS. The results of the survey revealed that the food sources of the selected study area are convenience stores with insufficient selection. Few carried fresh produce and meat. The average availability of the survey items was 45%. They are located in residential neighborhoods which favored walking as the major transportation. In contrast, large chain grocers with adequate selection are located on the periphery ofSyracusein more affluent, white neighborhoods. Thus, there is unequal access to nutritious food sources. This study supports the need for a more centrally located, sufficient grocery