Federal Project Grant Award Summary

San Diego State University Research Foundation received a $899,820 Project Grant from the National Institute on Minority Health and Health Disparities (NIMHD) under the Minority Health and Health Disparities Research program (CFDA 93.307), awarded May 6, 2026, with completion targeted for November 30, 2030. The project addresses food insecurity and health disparities in Imperial County, California rural communities by testing the effectiveness of introducing a produce distribution service into small retail stores (independent markets, corner stores, and convenience outlets) to increase healthy food access among low-income, primarily Hispanic residents.

The grant deliverables encompass three primary objectives: (1) assessment and characterization of the existing food environment through geographic information system (GIS) mapping of food retailers and in-store audits to identify healthy food access gaps; (2) adaptation and implementation of a produce distribution service based on input from community advisory boards and small store owners, with quantitative and qualitative feasibility and acceptability assessments; and (3) evaluation of service effectiveness on health outcomes and health equity. The project leverages existing community assets—small retail stores already serving residents—as distribution channels to increase visibility and availability of nutritious foods within rural communities while addressing documented barriers including economic instability, transportation limitations, and limited access to varied, healthy, and affordable food options.