In 2013, Evonne and Don Varady relocated from Illinois to North Carolina, seeking a fresh direction in their lives. Fueled by a strong determination and a commitment to health and community, they launched the first Clean Eatz location in a modest neighborhood adjacent to a well-frequented gym.
Their mission extended beyond simply establishing “a restaurant that serves healthy food”; they aimed to fulfill the community’s needs.
Identifying the issue
Clean Eatz emerged in response to a significant concern in American neighborhoods: food insecurity. The concept of “food desert” highlights the disparity in food accessibility across the nation; however, it merely touches on the more intricate social challenges surrounding food insecurity.
According to the 2022 report by the USDA’s Economic Research Service, restricted access to grocery stores or other sources of healthy, affordable food can inhibit many Americans from maintaining a healthy diet. Factors like income, transportation, and the distance to the nearest grocery outlet can create barriers to food access for certain individuals.
Moreover, nutritional inequality plays a critical role. A comprehensive study conducted by the National Bureau of Economic Research in 2019 found that mere access to healthier food options does not guarantee better diets, as disparities in income, education, and nutritional awareness may have equal or more substantial consequences.
Merely opening supermarkets in underrepresented areas or improving access to healthy options in existing shops represents only a partial solution.
Thus, working towards enhanced outcomes would likely entail a comprehensive strategy that includes improved access to nutritious foods, affordable choices, education about nutrition, and the encouragement necessary to alter deeply ingrained habits.
Finding solutions
“When we first launched Clean Eatz, we had no clear vision of what the future held. Our focus was solely on providing accessible, healthy food and building a supportive community,” shares Evonne.
Since its inception in 2011, Clean Eatz has expanded to over 100 locations across 23 states, with plans for further growth. The establishments provide both dining and takeaway services alongside online meal planning, all designed to be financially accessible for people from all economic backgrounds.
Each Clean Eatz site champions their definition of clean eating: “embracing the healthiest choices from every food group while minimizing less nutritious options. This entails favoring whole, natural ingredients like fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plus healthy proteins and fats, while reducing intake of refined grains, added sugars, and unhealthy fats.”
Building Community
For the Varadys, this was merely the start of their endeavor. They recognized that while affordability and accessibility are crucial, encouragement, education, and support play integral roles in adopting a healthier lifestyle.
“We aspire for individuals from all backgrounds to recognize that they can—and deserve to—benefit from a healthier way of living. We emphasize that it’s not a quick fix; achieving wellness requires time and dedication, but it shouldn’t feel daunting or out of reach,” explains Evonne. “Assisting others in their journey toward a healthier lifestyle is our core mission … everything else follows from that commitment.”
In addition to providing nutritional guidance through their cafes and website, the Varadys initiated the annual “We Change Livez Challenge.” This initiative equips participants with tools and support to facilitate lasting lifestyle alterations. Rooted in local communities, it offers motivation, resources, and a beneficial workout plan, along with a grand prize of $25,000 and a year’s supply of free meals. Truly inspirational!
The Varadys have also set up a charitable foundation to “raise awareness and funds for causes dear to our hearts… aiming to positively influence communities beyond the confines of our cafes.”
“We are deeply committed to engaging with all the communities we serve,” Evonne elaborates. “Recently, we launched the Clean Eatz Foundation, focusing on the fight against childhood obesity. We have raised substantial funds for initiatives like sending children to wellness camps at Camp Pocono Trails and creating scholarships for those pursuing careers in health and nutrition.”
Ultimately, the Varadys convey an equitable message through every Clean Eatz effort. Evonne emphasizes, “Our goal is to demonstrate that a healthy lifestyle isn’t exclusive to fitness enthusiasts.”
“At Clean Eatz, we encounter individuals from all backgrounds. Personal wellness shouldn’t be considered an unattainable dream. We encourage everyone to give themselves a chance, knowing they won’t navigate this path alone. A generous community is ready to cheer for those fighting for their health, and trust me, it’s a battle truly worth fighting.”
The term “food desert” is increasingly being suggested to be replaced by “food apartheid” in order to better encapsulate the socioeconomic issues that underlie and perpetuate food insecurity in low-income neighborhoods and communities of color.,
This article was originally featured in the May-June 2024 edition of The Windows Clubs magazine (US version).
