Chrystal Arpa of Citizens for Citizens and the Fall River Hunger Network invited Rose Arruda of the Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources to Fall River to speak to representatives of the Fall River and New Bedford Communities about ideas for the upcoming Food Day in Massachusetts, a celebration of healthy, affordable, and sustainably produced food and a grassroots campaign for better food policies. This national event, that occurs on October 24th every year, aims to help people Eat Real. That means cutting back on sugar drinks, overly salted packaged foods, and factory-farmed meats in favor of vegetables, fruits, whole grains, and sustainably raised protein. Food Day envisions shorter lines at fast-food drive-throughs—and bigger crowds at farmers market. It also works to strengthen the relationship between farmers and communities. Ms. Arruda gave examples of some of the 500 events that occurred in Massachusetts communities last year and suggested that South Coast communities work on plans for events to occur this year. To discuss potential events in Fall River this year, contact Chrystal Arpa of Citizens for Citizens at 508-679-0041. 

(Top row) Kristen Irvin of the SE Mass Food Security Network and SEMAP, Bill Shell of the New Bedford Hunger Commission, Michelle Hantman and Victoria Graselad of the United Way of New Bedford, Crystal Arpa of Citizens for Citizens and Linda Hennessy of HealthFirst Family Care Center introduce themselves to Rose Arruda of the Mass. Dept. of Agricultural Resources at the beginning of the meeting. (Row two) Rose Arruda and her assistant, Sarah Cadorette, describe the development of Food Day in Massachusetts. (Row three) Ray Ferreira of Catholic Social Services, Maurice Cyr of Bristol Community College, and Helena DaSilva Hughes of the Immigrants Assistance Center in New Bedford listen and react to Rose. (Bottom row) Partners for a Healthier Community Executive Director David Weed, Kristen Irvin and Linda Hennessy contribute their ideas as to what has been and could be done for Food Day in Fall River as Bill, Michelle, Victoria and Fred Dabney of the Dartmouth Agricultural Commission listen..