Harvey youth present plan to address food insecurity and repurpose vacant land

Two Thornton students presented Harvey’s City Council with a clear plan to empower students to lead the city’s solution to address food insecurity. 

“One issue we see is food access, and a food desert means families do not always have easy access to fresh, healthy and affordable food,” said Courtney Odom.

Odom and Somaya Brown previously expressed concerns about youth safety and social issues plaguing Harvey to the council in April.

The pair praised the presence of La Rosita and Alex’s Butcher Shop as a source for food, but said there are still barriers: “But some families still face challenges with transportations, costs, and access to fresh produce.” 

Their plan includes turning open land in the 2nd Ward “into a student support community garden and beautification space. This could include raised garden beds, fresh flowers, and student artwork.”

“We are here because students care about Harvey and want to be a part of the solution,” Courtney Odom said.  

The students also took time to discuss a community garden with local homeowners.

Fire Department equipment sale

“I did contact some fire departments that utilize engines for training purposes, and they all declined,” said Howard Fisher, the city’s fire chief. The department also plans to donate old air packs to an international organization that trains nationals from emerging countries to fight fires in their communities. The packs are worth $15-$25, and have two more years of use.

Water Department extended hours 

During her mayoral comments, acting mayor Shirley Drewenski asked attendees if they noticed that the water department were open, where residents can pay water bills during City Council meetings. “We know not everyone fits in the 9-5 row,” Drewenski said. For residents who need access to the water department after business hours, the office will be open until 7:00 PM during the council’s meetings, the 2nd and 4th Monday of every month.