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Youth Reports Reveal Gaps in Kingston’s Local Economy
As part of THRIVE ON!’s Early Thrivers program and the new Curriculum-to-Community track, students from the University at Albany School of Social Welfare conducted field research in Kingston’s Midtown and Downtown neighborhoods. Their reports reveal urgent gaps in the local economy, particularly around food access, transportation, and cultural inclusion.
January 2, 2025
Midtown: Food Insecurity and Unmet Needs
In Midtown Kingston, researchers found that while many households rely on SNAP, WIC, and other subsidies, most local stores either don’t accept these benefits or only stock processed and prepackaged foods. Residents reported difficulty accessing fresh, culturally relevant, or health-specific diets. Limited transportation options and long distances to essential services like DSS or the Department of Health further deepen the barriers.
Downtown: Emergency Resources Abundant, Fresh Food Scarce
In Downtown Kingston, the picture is different but equally concerning. The area has a high density of food pantries and free fridges, but almost no access to affordable fresh food. Only one market in the area accepts SNAP benefits, and the former farmers market is no longer in operation. Public transportation is limited to four bus stops, leaving many residents disconnected from resources. Cultural food options are sparse despite the presence of a large Latino/Guatemalan population.
A Deeper Lens Than Data Alone
What sets these reports apart is the social work lens the students brought. Rather than relying solely on census data or economic indicators, they immersed themselves in the community—meeting local leaders, visiting stores and pantries, and volunteering with groups like Blackbird Café, People’s Place, and Angel Food East. This approach uncovered realities that numbers alone miss, from the struggle of parents affording baby formula to the unmet demand for culturally relevant groceries.
Next Steps: Toward Solutions
The findings point toward both immediate and structural needs:
Better transportation links between neighborhoods and food access points.
Expanded cultural food offerings to reflect Kingston’s diversity.
Mobile markets and community gardens as tools for fresh food access.
Policy changes to support small groceries and reduce barriers to SNAP/WIC acceptance.
“These youth-led reports remind us that food access is about more than calories,” said Keyvious Avery, President of THRIVE ON!. “It’s about dignity, culture, health, and equity. By listening to the community, we can build solutions that last.”
Read the Full Reports
Both Midtown and Downtown findings are published on THRIVE ON!’s website. To explore the complete reports, visit: www.thriveon.network/findings
About THRIVE ON!
THRIVE ON! is a youth-driven nonprofit based in Kingston, NY. Beginning with its pilot Early Thrivers program, THRIVE ON! equips young people and grassroots leaders to design, build, and lead the solutions their communities need.