May 11, 2020
Even during normal times, residents in rural communities across Kansas often struggle to find a reliable and safe source of food nearby. The outbreak of the novel coronavirus which causes the disease COVID-19 has made that struggle greater. David Procter, the director of the Center for Engagement and Community Development at Kansas State University, has studied the importance of grocery stores to rural communities. He says they are often a barometer of the economy in small towns. In response to COVID-19, many rural grocery stores adjusted their operations. Procter says the changes may become permanent if sales increase and consumer demand remains strong.
Sound Living is a weekly public affairs program addressing issues related to families and consumers. It is hosted by Jeff Wichman. Each episode shares the expertise of K-State specialists in fields such as child nutrition, food safety, adult development and aging, youth development, family resource management, physical fitness and more.
Send comments, questions or requests for copies of past programs to ksrenews@ksu.edu.
K‑State Research and Extension is a short name for the Kansas State University Agricultural Experiment Station and Cooperative Extension Service, a program designed to generate and distribute useful knowledge for the well‑being of Kansans. Supported by county, state, federal and private funds, the program has county Extension offices, experiment fields, area Extension offices and regional research centers statewide. Its headquarters is on the K‑State campus in Manhattan.