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FARE Neighborhoods Initiative

Tackling Health Disparities in Food Allergy

An estimated 33 million Americans have a food allergy. For people living in low-income communities, the disease is even more dangerous. That’s because access to medication, allergists, and safe food can be difficult due to cost and availability. On top of that, Black and Latino patients face added challenges – including underdiagnosis and greater risk of hospitalization and death from a severe allergic reaction. 

The delivery of health education resources and interventions in the community setting is a promising strategy for managing food allergies, particularly among underserved populations. In response, FARE launched the FARE Neighborhoods InitiativeTM (FNI), bringing together the Community Access Program, FARE Health Equity Scholars, and other FARE programs to expand how we holistically support those facing food allergies in historically marginalized communities. 

In each community, FARE collaborates with schools, community organizations, healthcare providers, places of worship, and volunteers to bring education and awareness activities to the community. This has included the following: 

  • Partnering with a mobile health van and healthcare providers

  • Workshops for parents/caregivers and people with food allergies

  • Training for food assistance programs, schools, and childcare centers

  • Collaborations with libraries and churches for broader food allergy awareness

Each FNI is guided by volunteer advisory councils of local parents, patients, health professionals, and community stakeholders. Additionally, FARE contracts with local community health workers for increased local representation. 

kids smiling

Program Highlights

  • Number of presentations/trainings: 80+

  • Number of pre-K – 12 schools engaged: 450+

  • Percentage of event attendees who said they learned something new: 92

  • Percentage of event attendees who said they feel more confident managing food allergies: 90

Mom grocery shopping with her son
View the FARE Neighborhoods Initiative Info Sheet
FARE Neighborhood Locations
Community Access Program Information Center

Interested in joining our efforts?

Expansion of the FARE Neighborhoods Initiative to additional disadvantaged communities is central to FARE’s health equity commitment to help make food allergy education, awareness, and resources available to ALL who need them. Partnership and support will be key to enabling FARE to expand the program across urban and rural regions over the next five years.

Community Access Program Partners and Collaborators

To learn more about FARE’s commitment to diversity, equity and inclusion

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