Flint Leverage Points Project (FLPP)
Robert Brown, Associate Director, Flint CCED
CCED Flint is partnering with MSU’s Department of Community Sustainability (College of Agriculture and Natural Resources) and the Community Foundation of Greater Flint (CFGF) to engage in a community-based research project to better understand the food system in Flint, Michigan.
Looking holistically at the production, distribution, access, consumption, and waste of food, we aim to better understand all of the components of this dynamic system. A series of workshops, interviews, focus groups, and historical research will help uncover factors that inhibit change in the food system. Building on this data, we will create mental models that can help identify leverage points for positive change. By taking a systems-science approach, we will reveal how food security is interconnected with other environmental, economic, social justice, equity, and health problems. Boasting a 100-year history of activism that led to better labor conditions and improvements to the everyday lives of community members, Flint shines as an example of what strong communities can achieve when working together.
Drawing on the strength of the Flint community, this project unites community partners with researchers to develop models for better understanding the food system. At the conclusion of this project we hope the research will be used to reduce inefficiencies and support collective action that results in healthy and affordable food access for all. More information about the project can be found on our website: www.canr.msu.edu/FlintFood.