Deserted in Bertie

Description

Deserted in Bertie examines the resident’s personal experiences and recommends potential solutions to reduce and alleviate food insecurity. In northeastern North Carolina, Bertie is one of the largest counties in the state and is classified as a “rural” food desert resulting from “Food Apartheid.” As a predominately African American population, there is only ONE grocery store to cover the county’s entire 741 square miles. Shopping for junk food is more convenient and economically feasible due to mere accessibility and affordability. Bertie County’s economic deprivation has resulted in 100% of all children receiving free school lunches. The area is economically deprived, with few employment opportunities. In 2020, the U.S. Census Bureau reported the unemployment rate in Bertie County was 10 to 12%.