News Summary
Towne Center Nutrition has opened in Augusta, aiming to tackle obesity in the community by offering healthy food options. The shop, founded by Scott and Brittany Queen, provides meal replacement shakes and protein coffee, fostering a sense of community while promoting wellness. With Augusta ranking as the seventh most obese city in the U.S., initiatives like this are vital in addressing food access and health education as the region faces significant health challenges.
Augusta residents now have access to a new healthy nutrition shop, Towne Center Nutrition, which opened its doors nearly a year ago. The shop aims to combat the rising obesity rates in the area by providing the community with convenient access to nutritious food options. Owners Scott and Brittany Queen were inspired to create this business after their daughter, a student at Auburn University, highlighted the lack of nutrition clubs in the Augusta region.
The Queens transformed their idea into reality within just six months, motivated by a desire to offer healthier meal alternatives. Customers can now find an array of options, including meal replacement shakes, protein coffee, and various healthy drinks designed to promote wellness and nutrition. Despite being newcomers to the business world, the Queens have successfully connected with their clientele, largely due to their enthusiasm for the products they serve and their personal experiences using them.
Both Scott and Brittany have lost weight by consuming these nutritious products, reinforcing their commitment to the shop and their belief in the value of healthy living. The store not only focuses on providing food options but also strives to create a sense of community. They make it a point to know their customers’ names and personal stories, fostering relationships that go beyond mere transactions.
In an effort to spread positivity, each iced tea cup sold at Towne Center Nutrition comes with a handwritten motivational message, further enhancing the connection between the business and its patrons.
Health Concerns in Augusta
Augusta faces significant health challenges, with statistics indicating that the city ranks as the seventh most obese city in the United States, as reported by WalletHub. The obesity rate in Georgia stands at a concerning 35%, and the rates are even higher among non-Hispanic Black adults at 43.8%. These figures bring to light the pressing issue of food access and health education in the region.
Many neighborhoods in Augusta are categorized as food swamps, where unhealthy food options are readily available, outnumbering healthier alternatives. Furthermore, one in three residents live over a mile away from a grocery store, an issue compounded by the area’s poverty rate, which is at 21%.
Research on Food Access and Health
Research conducted by Malcolm Bevel at the Georgia Cancer Center investigates the link between food access and health, particularly regarding obesity-related cancers in the Central Savannah River Area (CSRA). His studies show that residing in food swamps can double the mortality risk for breast cancer patients.
Access to healthy food is crucial for improving long-term health outcomes in Augusta. The Georgia Cancer Center is actively working to enhance food access through initiatives like community gardening and micro-farming. Such projects aim to provide residents with fresh produce while encouraging sustainable gardening practices.
Plans are also underway to revitalize the rooftop terrace of the Georgia Cancer Center to grow food intended for patients and community outreach. Partnerships with local farms are being established to tackle food insecurity and promote healthier eating options throughout Augusta.
The Path Forward
Local initiatives are focusing on distributing fresh produce to support homelessness and others in need. Community members believe that meaningful progress in addressing obesity will require comprehensive changes in policy, access to food, and health education. By fostering nutrition education and resources, the hope is to create a healthier Augusta, one where individuals can easily make informed decisions about their diets and well-being.
Deeper Dive: News & Info About This Topic
HERE Resources
Tomato Sandwich Competition Highlights Local Culinary Skills
Golden Harvest Food Bank Expands Summer Harvest Program
University of Alabama Students Gain Experience at 2025 Masters
Additional Resources
- WRDW: New Business in Augusta Offers Healthy Drink Options
- WFXG: Augusta Ranked 7th in National Obesity Report
- Augusta Chronicle: Augusta University Studying Micro-Farms
- News Leader: Augusta Health Takes a Look at Local Health Outcomes
- Google Search: Food Access and Health
Author: STAFF HERE AUGUSTA WRITER
AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER The AUGUSTA STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREAugusta.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Augusta, Richmond County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Arts in the Heart Festival, Westobou Festival, and Masters Week. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Augusta Metro Chamber of Commerce and Greater Augusta Arts Council, plus leading businesses in manufacturing and healthcare that power the local economy such as Textron Specialized Vehicles, Cardinal Health, and Nutrien. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREAtlanta.com and HERESavannah.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Georgia's dynamic landscape.
