Going local provides numerous benefits

This News By You article was submitted by Cindy Gentry, executive director of Community Food Connections, a non-profit organization. She can be reached at 602-493-5231 or via www.foodconnect.org.

Is buying organic really that much better for you?

Is there potential for strengthening Arizona's economy by buying locally produced goods and services?

Can a public farmers market help revitalize part of town, reacquaint old friends and showcase local talent?

Can shopping local help those in need?

The answer to all these questions is a resounding yes.

Yes, it's trendy to be green these days. That being said, there are steps and initiatives that can be taken to help this "trend" spur long-term results and solutions. These solutions help fight hunger, enhance the Arizona economy and help the local community educate and improve overall health and well being.

The Downtown Phoenix Public Market, a non-profit organization now in its fourth year, is aiming to do exactly that.

The market, at 721 N. Central Ave. (north of Van Buren Street between McKinley and Pierce), has demonstrated its ability to revitalize the community. It draws visitors to downtown and new residents to nearby housing; it allows local farmers and artisans who specialize in everything from Mexican cuisine to jewelry to soap to showcase their skills and get to know their neighbors.

It has inspired local restaurants to use locally grown produce. It provides safe alternatives in the wake of recent recalls of jalapenos and tomatoes.

It has introduced programs to help expand access to and benefit Arizona's seniors, low-income families and children by accepting food stamps and partnering with the Arizona Department of Health, SVS and through programs such as the Women, Infants and Children Program.

As we anticipate a late-summer opening of a new, permanent location downtown, we also anticipate long-term positive results.

I encourage you to discover the flavors of Arizona and how much better food can taste at its freshest. And how that freshness can enhance your health.

I encourage you to discover, or rediscover, the re-emergence of downtown Phoenix as a community hub, and to introduce, or reintroduce, yourself to your friends and neighbors.

Last, I encourage you to help change your life and those of others for the better. Be it through healthy eating and living, supporting the local community or helping an organization that offers relief to the less fortunate, the Downtown Phoenix Public Market is the perfect place to start. It's time to be more vocal about local.