Unplanned Food Access

Abstract

Problem, research strategy, and findings U.S. suburbs have increasingly diversified in the past 2 decades. Most working-class and lower income immigrant households settle in older suburbs of metro regions, reversing their decline. In this study I examined the multifaceted contribution of immigrant food entrepreneurs toward the wellbeing of a multiethnic, working-class suburb (Upper Darby, PA). This mixed-methods study relied on historical research, a survey, and field observation to explore how immigrant-run food stores shaped the food environment. The historical research examined the contribution of immigrant food businesses to vacancy and food access over time and found that persistent operation, ownership, and business transfer of ethnic food businesses stabilized the community and provided continuous access to food. A cross-sectional survey of a sample of residents demonstrated that ethnic food businesses contributed to the diversity and density of the food environment, creating a healthier environment and enabling residents to navigate it according to their needs, preferences, and budgets. The sample size was relatively small (n = 115) for this exploratory research design. Insufficient data points and large number of explanatory variables posed challenges for some statistical tests (e.g., multinomial logistic regression), which did not yield strong results. Takeaway for practice Community development stakeholders, including planners, recognize newcomers’ contributions toward labor markets and local economies but have paid less attention to the health effects of immigrant revitalization. This study’s findings call planners’ attention to equitable development practices, such as creating economic inclusion pathways for immigrant populations, as an important strategy to invest in equitable, multicultural, and healthy communities.