Healthy Communities

CX3
Communities of Excellence in Obesity Prevention, Nutrition and Physical Activity (CX3) is a powerful tool that captures and communicates neighborhood-level data to promote healthier communities. In May of 2012, staff completed the CX3 process for qualifying census tracts in Santa Cruz County.  Reassessment and assessment of new neighborhoods was conducted in the Summer of 2016.

Champions for Change Stories
Jovenes Sanos is a great example of grass-roots community advocacy making a difference in their city.  It is a youth advocacy and leadership program based in Watsonville, California. Their mission is to raise awareness about childhood obesity and train youth leaders to advocate for a healthier community. Check out this video about the Jovenes Sanos program and the great work they are doing.

Farmers Markets and Market Match

Farmers markets are a great way to support local farmers, and find fresh affordable local produce. There are several farmers markets throughout Santa Cruz County and most now accept WIC and EBT. Find the market nearest you.

Many local farmers markets now feature Market Match. This incentive program matches customers’ federal nutrition assistance benefits, like CalFresh and WIC, at farmers’ markets. The program empowers low-income customers to make healthy food choices and benefits California farmers.

For over 20 years Santa Cruz Community Farmers’ Markets (SCCFM) has been committed to the health of the local Santa Cruz community.

Click here to find a farmers market near you in Santa Cruz County.