In Nicollet County, where rates of type 2 diabetes are high, Ana Garza sees the toll of chronic illness every day in her dual role as a community health worker and medical assistant in St. Peter. But she’s not just observing the problem—she’s tackling it head-on. Through her work with Project REACH (Rural Experts Advancing Community Health), Garza is using her frontline experience to push for stronger, smarter food policies that can improve lives across Minnesota.
Her policy proposal includes a statewide mandate for a front-of-package warning labels on ultra-processed food, providing straightforward visual indicators of high sugar, sodium, artificial dyes, unhealthy fat content, and other concerning ingredients.
Throughout the year-long program, Garza has connected with community partners from the St. Peter Community Free Clinic, as well as former Representative Jeff Brand about this work, gaining valuable insights into how public policy is shaped at the state level. The experience has deepened her commitment to advocacy and opened new doors for collaboration.
Looking ahead, she plans to continue building momentum by connecting with other local and state policymakers, as well as public health and community-based organizations. Her goal is to create a coalition of partners working toward a healthier food environment for all Minnesotans.
"This work involves advocating for healthier food systems that ensure all individuals have access to nutritious options, promoting culturally sensitive care that respects diverse traditions, and supporting sustainable community development that empowers local populations. My dedication stems from a profound sense of equity, inspired by my upbringing in a community heavily affected by diet-related illnesses. I saw firsthand how the lack of clear, understandable food labels and limited access to fresh, affordable produce negatively impacted families' health,” said Garza. “Through this project, I have learned to utilize evidence-based policies to promote standardized front-of-package warning labeling, advocate for equitable nutrition access to reduce disparities, and create culturally relevant solutions tailored to each community’s needs, ensuring policies truly reflect the realities and voices of those they serve.”
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