OMAHA, Neb. (WOWT) – For Jaden Perkins, taking control of his health is a priority.
“Given the predispositions in our community to diabetes and high blood pressure, I felt it was crucial to take the initiative,” said Perkins, an Omaha resident.
Perkins is proactive about his health, often visiting a local business owner with a similar focus—Imani Murray.
“We die so early. Black men and women pass away from preventable conditions that we can manage through diet. When I did my research, I asked myself, ‘How can I prevent this at a young age? What changes can I make?’” said Murray.
Murray began by sharing juice and smoothie recipes online, which eventually led to the creation of her North Omaha business, Ital Vital Living, located on North 24th Street.
“I started out just doing something I was passionate about—eating healthy and cooking nutritious meals,” Murray told 6 News.
Access to healthy food is a challenge in the Omaha Metro area, particularly for low-income residents. According to the Omaha Community Foundation, 36% of very low-income households in the area struggle to find fresh, affordable produce. The problem disproportionately affects minority communities, with 29% of Hispanic and 22% of Black residents facing similar difficulties.
“I grew up in South Omaha, and now I live in North Omaha, which has long been recognized as a food desert. It’s not easy,” Perkins said.
Over the past five years, Murray has been working to combat this issue in North Omaha, providing healthy options through her business.
“People often have to drive far to find a grocery store with fresh produce. That’s why we love offering cold-pressed juices and smoothies right here—it gives the community a healthier alternative,” she explained.
Now, Murray is ready to take her mission even further. She is opening a second Ital Vital Living location at 76th and Cass Streets, with plans to launch in the fall.
