Areas devoid of fresh food outlets, like Newark, New Jersey, have been deemed "food deserts."

As part of the Newark Fresh Foods Program, the Small Grocer Initiative helps small-scale food marts in Newark, like the Food Plaza, expand and increase their supply of fresh fruits and vegetables.

"We’re going to tell people that we want you to be fit. We’re going to tell people that your eating habits have to change," said Mayor Cory Booker. "We can’t just say that and then don’t empower people with their choices. This is an example of that kind of empowerment."