Want a snack on campus, but something fresh and not from the vending machine? Then The University of Toledo Urban Affairs Center wants to hear from you.
The Urban Affairs Center is partnering with faculty in the College of Health Science and Human Service to conduct a market feasibility study regarding fresh, local produce delivery on campus.
“Fresh markets on campus and in workplaces have worked in other places,” said Paula Ross, research associate at the Urban Affairs Center. “The farm-to-firm idea makes it convenient to purchase healthy foods, and it provides an economic benefit to farmers and health benefits to those who purchase produce.”
The Urban Affairs Center recently hosted a presentation by David Eson, a Pittsburgh entrepreneur who runs “Farms to Pitt” on the campus of the University of Pittsburgh. Ross and her colleagues want to inspire a similar venture here, and they’re willing to help make it work by facilitating a pilot and providing technical assistance.
The survey will help Ross and her research team determine if there is a demand for such a program at UT and learn what types of products participants would like to purchase if they proceed with the project.
“A lot of the initial responses say it is a great idea; however, we want a realistic picture to determine if this project is feasible,” Ross said.
To take part in the online University of Toledo Food Buying Survey, visit http://vovici.com/wsb.dll/s/15b20g475e6.
The survey is anonymous and targets faculty and staff. It will be available online through Tuesday, Nov. 30. To thank people for taking the time to participate, one person will be randomly selected to receive a $100 gift certificate to a Maumee Valley Growers greenhouse. To participate in the drawing, you need to submit your e-mail address at the end of the survey.
