Mark Bittman, once more hitting on all cylinders, and today praising our fair city, Mayor Nutter, and the fine work of the Food Trust.
Foodwise, among the most progressive cities in the country right now is Philadelphia, where the alliance of a forward-thinking mayor and a 19-year-old non-profit is moving things forward. Within a year or two, Philly might be funding better access to real food for its poorest citizens by taxing soda. And if you accept the notion that childhood obesity and the accompanying Type 2 diabetes are big problems, and you’re aware that soda is a major cause, you’ll agree that’s a huge step in the right direction. Even the present is encouraging, because Philadelphia is figuring out its residents’ food needs and demonstrating that government and non-profits can lead the fight against diet-related diseases by putting real food into the hands of people — especially children — who have trouble finding and affording it.
Meanwhile, the Food Trust is also gearing up for the 15th annual Stroehmann Bakeries Walk Run Against Hunger. The Food Trust will receive 80 percent of funds donated through supporters, and the rest goes to more than 100 food pantries, soup kitchens and hunger-relief agencies in Philadelphia area. Please help them reach their fundraising goal! Mayor Nutter would want you to: 