@@palestar828 it could've been a superficial video only covering the gyms and foods. The man that gave the tour gave a deep dive into the life of an actual Camden resident. Hope this helps you understand how it "hit" differently because of him.
You couldn’t have found a nicer, knowledgeable fella to show you about. He gave you such an insight into the life they live and the daily struggles. Kudos to that man for trying to change things for him and his family
To interview someone living in the situation always makes it real. More so with those in this video, especially good choices! This is probably the best video on the food desert problem anywhere on YT.
My family is from camden some of the most genuine kind souled people you would ever meet. It is a city so you have your bad apples, but most of the people are kind, loving, and friendly who just are not as financially fortunate.
The people at the gym are usually the ones building the local economy. Most of the ones at my gym are business owners or doctors and lawyers and a lot of them are blue collar workers building roads and houses or buildings, etc. If you can build a good gym you will eventually have a safer community with jobs. Everyone is treated the same there unlike at golf clubs.
I stopped going to my local gym because of the negative vibes from a lot of the people there. No place to have a "good life" if everyone is not welcome.
THIS is what influencers should be doing. Stuff like this has to bubble up to the top so everyone sees the reality instead of judging people for making bad decisions, when the decisions have been made for them. This is a FEATURE not a BUG. Limit access, healthcare and healthy options and obviously people will suffer. Having to get in your car (that for many is a fortune to even insure) to go find a green space or get healthy food or be SAFE should not be the default situation. Keep it up man.
@@jeetkunedoatlanta2464These businesses wont stock their shelves with high quality products off an “ask”. In the real world, money talks. Areas like this and others around it have historically been underfunded. It’s more than limited bud
@@jeetkunedoatlanta2464 you answered your own question. Businesses only care about profits. There's a greater margin on canned and packaged goods, packed small (not even in cost effective ways for consumers) than for produce. The onus shouldn't be on the consumer to ask a bodega manager who literally doesn't care about anything to go bring in fresh ingredients. Stop subsidizing junk and subsidize produce. That's why a bell pepper is $3 vs a can of Pringles
@@jeetkunedoatlanta2464 LOL you did ask a question. And if you actually read my comment and watched the video you'd see why people can't even be healthy when they want to. How are you gonna be healthy if the stores in your neighborhood don't stock healthy food? And there's no way to get to the stores on the other side of town to buy food? See the problem? Will literally spend time in a dilapidated city full of poverty and showed how it's difficult for locals to eat healthy bc the majority of the healthy food is inaccessible and out of reach.
I did my dissertation on food deserts! This video was so well done! Another reason people in low income areas don’t buy produce is because they are also what’s called “time poor.” You’re stretched in a million ways from long working hours doing physical labor jobs to early mornings and long commutes. Just the physical labor or being poor and working with your body makes cooking a luxury they don’t have the convenience to indulge in. Make it cheap make it quick so I can get some sleep. Having conveniences in life, like grocery delivery, Amazon, etc frees up a ton of time to do things like cook. When you’re working long days it leaves very little energy to fire up the oven. Just another barrier that I wanted to mention! Excellent video as always, will!
I sometimes think that the only thing that will practically help in these food deserts is that a handful of people make a small business out of going and getting fresh plant foods and making up foods for sale to other local households. It is hard work and not hugely profitable but can provide a consistent income. (This is what is done in our poorer townships in South Africa. There is no such thing as a paid-for school lunch in our country, so picking up something already cooked on the way home - like a braised corn on the cob, or a bowl / plate of ready made pap - a stiff corn ‘porridge’ - and a bit of chicken and cooked veg, from a roadside vendor or the local cafe which is made on a daily basis). Ps. The community gardens are fantastic.
And yet, the expenses from consuming junk and ordering out are likely a major factor in why they have to work such long jobs, truly cooking at home will save you so much money, especially compared to delivery.
Also because broken or non-existent families don’t pass along cooking skills. Time poverty also applies to those educated types who are hellbent on corporate advancement. Plenty of kids from even high income households don’t even know now to cook an egg or open a can of beans.
I never thought of time as being a barrier. It makes sense bc my mother was a single mom working 2 jobs on top of her main one. So she didn’t make the healthiest meals. I am in a better situation, married with 3 children & one job 35 hours a week. I am able to cook healthy & I never realized what a luxury that is.
I grew up in Camden and I clicked on here not knowing this was the city you were going to. I love that you showed a positive side of a very misunderstood community. Ollie raised you well, Mr Tennyson. Much love. 👊🏾
Im not from Camden but I still getting defensive at first. Im thinking why is he starting the video making it seem like its such a bad place. Cultures can be different doesnt mean one is bad and the other is good. But he did an ok job of making sure the real people were represented
I was born and raised in Camden too. I am shocked he was there. I remember when 20/20 came there to show how we lived and basically did nothing to humanize us like he has. And I didn’t think much of it when I was a kid, but my family would drive all the way to cherry hill to get groceries. We would get our meats in Camden. And all of my snack money went to peanut chews, Days cola, and chumpies chips. Not a lot of options unless we were taking a run to cherry hill.
I love the evolution of wills work. From doing routines to documenting real socieo economic issues that affects peoples fitness. This is easily one of his best
@@mahino420 yah I know who u r talking about, the title, thumbnail and concept r similar but I found when will emulates the style he is a lot less sensational in approach but I enjoy oliveira videos as well
The difference is that T. Olivera is a slimy sensationalist liar that dehumanizes people and communities for views. Where Will here is more like a blog that’s humanizing and just letting the people speak for themselves.
She opened up more than answered the questions. She really reaching out for attention and answers support and has been given no explanation for her issues
@@au1317Tyler is a clout chasing influencer. He doesn’t care that much about the communities he visits except how much clicks he can get. He often makes fun of the people living there
Chris was an amazing dude to have on. Humble. Kind hearted. A family man. And you know he’s speaking from experience when he talks about some of these struggles. Praying for you Chris Buford.
The vibe at the gym....fellas you spoke with, & especially the dude who gave you the tour, added great perspective to this vid. So down to earth, and thoughtful. Great content! ❤🦾
The worst part of this is nj is the “garden state” we’re known for our fresh produce and there’s absolutely none in one of our biggest cities, it’s tragic
Yes this is by design. Marginalized people such as Black and brown people live in urban cities. Detroit has a huge food and gym desert. Also known as the city with the worst Redlining. I have to drive 20 minutes (namely to one of the RICHEST counties in the ENTIRE country ((Oakland County, look it up I can’t make this up lol.))) for a decent supermarket.
@@Kelsk3825go buy some fresh kale and Brussels sprouts and bring them to Camden. You could not give them away if you set up a food truck and paid people to eat it. You think people eat the way they do because of what’s available, it never occurs to you this is what’s available because that’s what they want. If the residents wanted juice stands, organic coffee shops and wine bars that sell sulfite free red wine, they’d be there!
The way how Americans run this country, and each state is insane. Especially for being #1 of the world powers. Like damn… All these world leaders got all the people in crumbles. Men Even china still enjoys eating dogs and bats.🤮 The poverty all around is gross.
It was the garden state in the late 1800s, NJ abandoned most of there farms around 1900s.. so you guys used to be know for fresh produce kinda it was more about the condition of the soil.
This is real journalism. Thank you for going out to an area you are unfamiliar with and exposing this to more people that couldn’t believe areas like this exist. The gentleman that showed you around is amazing and I hope he and his family remain blessed!
Will, I was born and raised here. It’s a tough little city; but, all of my education took place in Camden - from pre-school to University. I played competitive volleyball starting in the 3rd grade through college, and played softball most of my life. We worked out at the gyms in school and then at Rutgers. Bro, We got it in!! There’s so much to be said about Camden . Maybe it’s the water, perhaps it’s the adversity; but greatness is born there! 💪🏽 This doesn’t take away from the challenges; but, that goes back to the paths you guys talked about. Complicated memories. Seeing the video brought me to tears. Good work. ♥️#CMDNJ
Similar to the 2 paths, described in the Bible...the wide and easy path leads to Death, and the narrow and hard path leads to Life. Choose Wisely. 22:55
Born and raised in Camden as well, I agree wholeheartedly. Surprised he didn’t spend more time in East Camden though or go to the Kroc Center in Cramer hill. Either way, complicated memories explains it all perfectly.
Will this is easily one of the most important and hard-hitting videos you have made. It's so insightful and so enlightening. And I hate the fact that it didn't get as many views as your others. PLEASE don't let that deter you from uncovering the struggles of the voiceless.
I agree, I really love these videos where he visits different cities and showcases the community, and I'm glad it's taken this turn into genuinely showing the struggles of people.
Out of all the videos Will does, these documentary ones are my favorite. This was such a well-done video. Chris and his buddies in the gym seem like the best type of people, and having him guide you around and give his thoughts and experiences on the past and hopeful future of Camden was great.
The man guiding Will around is the star of this video. He's so kind and so smart. I wish him and his daughters well. The parts about the tolls keeping people in shocked me so bad.
The toll is to fund city infrastructure. People commute from town to the city, it’s not like they’re going to tax them going both ways. Look at the Golden Gate for example, tolls only get taken while going into San Francisco, not while leaving SF. In that example, one of the wealthiest counties in the world is to the north, so you can’t really say “they’re keeping them out” in that example. This is a common feature of cities in relationship to commuter towns.
@@shorecasted9295 if the tolls are meant to raise funds from the wealthier counties, why would they only charge upon leaving one of the poorest? It seems like either a crazy error that miraculously nobody has corrected or intentional city planning to keep very poor communities away from wealthier ones
The point he made about the foods being available to people there being the same stuff that's available in prison commissaries was bone chilling. We live in a country with so much wealth. I have a BA in Econ and there's just no reason for this level of suffering other than greed and intentionally keeping people weak so our wage rates stay cheap so we're easier to exploit. We are constantly pitted against each other to distract us from the real problems which is the fact that our government and our employers are the same exact people. Ignoring this fact allows them to artificially control our wages, food, and housing prices with impunity.
@@chanceseverson they’re not, look up toll roads in that area and you will see them on nearly every major commute into the city. It’s not unique to Camden. Great video by Will but respectfully RUclipsrs don’t work normal jobs where they’re exposed to normal commutes that working class people deal with regularly in metro areas across the nation. And it’s not meant to raise funds “from the wealthier counties” it’s to raise funds for the city from people who commute into it using city infrastructure. This is not a unique thing. Again, look at the entirety of the state of Illinois as another example. Do you think Illinois is discriminating against poor Rockford by having tolls when entering the Chicago metro area? No, because so does every other Chicago commuter city.
@@chanceseverson There's nobody actively going against Camden. But the problem is criminals and corruption. I wouldn't be surprised if the reason they did this was to reduce the amount of crime being exported from Camden into Philly
Jersey girl here…it’s a crying shame that Camden has become the Detroit of NJ, especially considering NJ is one of the highest taxed states in the country. It’s clear those dollars aren’t filtering down to Camden. City and state leadership have failed Camden overall.
This is the type of video I scroll RUclips for. It makes me realize how lucky I am to have access to fresh produce and inspires me to take advantage of more fitness resources in my town. A lot of people don’t have the easy access to the things I take for granted. I could be doing more, I want to, I will.
“yo that’s a PR” 3:36 it’s too cool to see Will continually beating his records, sometimes in the most casual of ways hahaha. LOVED the interviews + video ❤️
I love how fitness and gyms makes people connect. He went into the gym, knowing no one, and made connections my lifting weights. I actually made a friend today in my gym just by her asking about the workout videos I was watching on RUclips. People are afraid or intimidated by gyms but really, people are really friendly in gyms! Especially when you need help 🤗
Interesting, I've always heard opposite... But I can see it though. I get sick too often, so it's better to do things at home. But I walk in the early morning, and early morning crew are a different people. Very dedicated in our own special way😊
Dude I feel this. Me and my gym buddy are from the sticks, and these old school type gyms are absolutely the best! May be small, but they have everything you need so you can lift hard.
This makes me sad because I literally grew up in this city and they’re showing places that I used to go too all the time. Camden is really like this, hopefully my home town gets better. I currently live in Philly
As a NJ resident, Thank you for making this video thoughtful and tasteful! you didn't go in with assumptions, you asked local people about their experiences ... very well done
I'm in a town of 10,000 in Australia and we have 4 major supermarkets. This place having 1 for 80,000 people and there's barely anyone shopping there is wild.
I live in the Netherlands and I have 2 supermarkets within a 5 minute walk away. 3 actually, now that I think about it. That 3th one specifically sells mainly fruits and veggies. 4 for 10.000 people is insane!
It´s because America is build for cars not for people, there is no way for the majority of the people getting to that one store. In germany we got also those little Stores but damn they have fresh and cheap veggies everyday . I walk 10 minutes by foot and got 3 regular supermarkets all offering everything i need for my daily use, on my way home with public transport i got almost options on every stop to buy of one of these mentioned turkish shops to buy fresh veggies/meats/rice and so on and two times a week there is a market where i can buy directly from the producer ( farmers ), all without needing a car.
Yeah the fresh food supply is small but it could be much worse. The issue is that when your a single homeless mother in survival mode trying to find shelter and food and diapers for your baby, eating fruit, meeting your protein intake and working out is not going to be on your radar at all. As you showed so well, the issue is so much deeper than just a supply issue or lack of facilities.
@@omw2cry lets not fool ourselves . Reality is most of the single homeless mother are in this type of situation. Nothing wrong to state the bitter truth and raise awareness not to engage in risky behaviour.
@@primRose28-jtr You're saying "let's not fool ourselves" while making an attempt to fool other people. You seem to think that confidence and bravado can replace insight and faculty of reason. I suspect you view other people who use confidence as a poor substitute for integrity as being worthy of their platform too. Lisa Goodman, Katya Fels, Catherine Glenn and Judy Benitez wrote an excellent piece published by VAWnet in 2006 that (together with a wealth of data that is only a google away for those with the humility to learn learn rather than the impudence to assert a falsehood into reality through their bluster) shows that homeless women are extremely likely to experience sexual violence. It's profoundly worrying that you and many others felt so comfortable talking arrogantly about things that you obviously have no knowledge about and neither the intelligence nor experience to draw inferences on. Stop trying to hide you ignorance with immature posturing. You risk living your life as a very confident and very lonely liar.
@@primRose28-jtr I'll pray for you to find some kindness and compassion in your heart instead of judging others first, that's the easy road that so many are on these days
Will, this has to be the best video I have seen you post. As many have said, you created a documentary showing some harsh realities people face in the United States. Those men in the gym were so welcoming, and seeing the gym community they had created was heartwarming. Chris is the star of this video, and he was terrific in showing you around Cambden and giving insight into how things really are for his community. Chris, I applaud you for wanting to improve things for yourself, your family, and the community; please don't stop. Thank you for sharing your community with the world. Will, I hope you make more videos like this. You open people's eyes to what is happening in this country, and because many of us live in bubbles, we never have to think about things like this. Thanks for making this video, an keep it up.
The best way to describe something is with love. This is a beautiful video, including the brotherhood and love between people in a harsh situation. Not looking down at anyone, just describing their situation.
Having a platform like RUclips is so important for insight and I depend journalism like this. I think we often forget that it's more than just entertainment. This was true education and insight that gives hope and a voice to the unheard. Loved this content. Hope to see more, and my only suggestion would be to maybe make the questions a bit less accusatory at first. You meant some incredible individuals but I think it's always leads to the best results when they don't feel they're defending themselves from you personally.
I'm an international student living in a run-down district of an American city similar to Camden and have 3 things to add: (1) A lot of the locals I've talked to are facing economic misery and often one of the only things that gets them through the day is greasy comfort food, and (2) I live on top of a bodega run by two kindly Latin American seniors who I've befriended - Since starting weightlifting, I've talked to the lady and requested that she stock some fresher, leaner protein sources... and she did! So while the bodegas lack the economies of scale that supermarkets can when leveraging cost effective produce, the personable scale of those stores can allow for some requests if you care about your diet. Lastly, (3) I have a cynical view on community gardens because I worked in the City's city council over the summer and saw how politicians would "gift" these community gardens to food desert communities, only for the gardens to quickly fall into disrepair after 1 season due to a lack of coordination after the excitement of the first harvest, and also the lack of staple foods and grains that these urban communities can realistically grow in North American climates. The politicians look good by doing these gardens (which are often just repurposed City land that was already lying fallow, so there's a lot of political reward for very little political cost), but the real problem of food deserts is never fixed by these gardens. Especially in a crime-ridden city like Camden, a lot of these gardens end up being occupied by organized crime elements that end up using them as hang-out spots, dissuading anyone from tending the garden. The only time I've seen community gardens work is one that was housed within an inner courtyard of an affordable housing complex - The enclosed nature of it allowed for constant surveillance and management by the abutters, and the housing complex also organized a compost collection program which provided constant fertilization and an indirect reason for every resident to contribute to the garden. So TLDR, community gardens only work if they're literally right outside where the gardening community lives. I think waiting for a large supermarket chain to come into Camden is ideal, but while the City waits for a chain to arrive, they should maybe try subsidizing the existing food stores / bodegas. Sure they looked run-down and contributed to the problem by stocking processed foods, but if Camden City Hall could help these small stores negotiate with food wholesalers to supply them with scalable produce, we could create a situation where the small stores can justify the selling of produce over packaged goods because of the higher profit margins from government subsidization. If the subsidy scheme goes well over a period of 5 years, you might even see some of the more successful bodegas evolve and grow into larger supermarkets that could fulfill the City's initial wish for a scalable supermarket.
Ive built and cared for three community gardens, one of them being for the provincial university and we would rather people take who are in need then for it to go to waste. There was a guy who would sneak in and steal tomatoes and carrots but we “caught” him one time and told him that’s what this is for!!
It’s too bad people never took care of them, because they can be so amazing. Our farmers made a “pizza garden” which is what it sounds like, garden cut and shaped like pizza and growing ingredients for pizza, wheat, tomatoes, basil, oregano, onion, garlic, mushrooms, bell peppers, but other side ingredients like carrots, kale, zucchini, potatoes…. It takes soooo much work and a strong bonded community to make it work. Cities who want or need this also need to invest more in the community as a whole.
@@Shottas4Twenty good for you guys, I’m proud of your effort. While the economist in me bridles at the notion of unlimited and unhindered distribution, it *is* the right thing to do - and so it’s up to us to design gardens that can somehow keep up with constant outflow. I wish perennial food crops like plantains (bananas) or mangoes could be GMO’d to survive colder climates, so that food could be available all year round from these city gardens.
You're the first person I've seen in the comments to even mention to word crime, which seems to be the elephant in the room here. A city of 80,000 should have a lot more than what Camden has.
It's a whole ecosystem. It's not just some vegetables that are missing, it's all the other staples, and the knowledge and will and time to buy them, prepare them and cook them, and then do it all over tomorrow.
Man that gym makes me nostalgic about my old gym in my home town. I go to a big franchise one now because I moved, sure the machines are better and newer, more variety, but you can't beat the atmosphere and comradery of a small town / neighborhood gym.
This has got to be one of your most eye opening videos. You seem to make everyone feel comfortable you interviewed and did some great background research 🙏
South NJ native and the problem is corporate layout not true availability. We HAVE the produce, but instead of it staying local it’s sold and shipped out everywhere else, 20-30 mins SE from Camden and it’s all farm fields, same thing in Atlantic City, ALSO a food desert, 25 mins W and it’s all farms. It’s crazy to see.
I’m from NJ, about 15 mins from Camden. I will say the toll thing is not specifically to keep Camden residents from going to Philly. The entire state is that way, you have to pay tolls to leave NJ but none to come in. Every bridge is that way. Unfair, nonetheless, especially for the people of Camden who don’t have the resources or access to them.
Drugs, Processed food, sugar everywhere, high sodium foods, and alcohol are a dangerous combo for people. It's like they don't want anyone here to live past the age of 60. I hope this video shines a light on this area, and many areas in the US like this.
@@seattlegrrlie I heard it's bad up in Canada too... *sigh* I need a time machine. Take me back to when things were affordable and people had less to be upset about :/
I live relatively close to here (an hour) in NJ and work in EMS. Diabetes and diet-related illness in general are completely out of control. A lot of our patients have what’s jokingly referred to as ‘the standard 3’ which is hypertension (high BP), diabetes, and kidney disease/failure. They need to be teaching in schools this stuff isn’t just unhealthy, it will literally kill you and cause you to be tied to machines for the rest of your life. Dialysis 3-4 hours a session for 3x a week is a shitty way to spend a life. And if you don’t do it, blood issues accumulate and you feel worse and worse until you die, within weeks/months of stopping treatment.
@@VastardokKukiaoVery ignorant to believe that places end up like this because of lack of education lol. So wrong dear. You don't understand the USA at all.
Crazy to think I use to be one of them addicts walking these streets and know every single road he was on, I am now going on 4 years sober after moving out of this city and started my fitness journey. I didn’t expect clicking this video this would hit home so hard. Thank you for this
Man, When I was younger I moved to Dayton, Ohio for a teaching job. We had to be at work at 7:15 daily. I´ve always been into fitness, so the first day I went out to run before work around 5:45 am. On three occasions I saw crackheads or whoever running away from me as I ran. I never, ever went out to run in the morning there again. I lived there for about two years then had enough and moved out. Once a dude followed me from McDonald´s all the way to work and threatened to shoot me because he said I cut him in line in the drive through.
That's like in my area of Jersey they don't bike for exercise they bike to get to work because they had too many DUIs and they gotta get to work somehow
@@d.n.8919 Yeah. I don't like Dayton. I witnessed and even got a little involved in a lot of nonsense when I lived there. I'll never return unless the city changes.
This was done with tact. Kudos for seeking to understand instead of judging and keeping compassion and humanity as you move through the world. Really appreciate the direction your content has gone, more so the integrity you have maintained. You're talking about fitness and health-related issues with real people and holding space for the nuance/intersectionality of it all. Refreshing to see compared to most of the 'fitness' content produced on social media. Making us Canadians proud!
Hitting me with the feels first thing in the morning. Glad you're bringing awareness to these problems, but I'm more glad that you're showing that change is already in progress. It can only get better from here.
Dude is mad brave for going to Camden. I got lost there for 2 hours since I was getting my phone fixed and didn’t know how to get home. And dude. Camden is fucking scary.
It reminds me of Oakland here in CA. So many amazing people trapped in awful circumstances. So many don't survive or exist with emotional damages that would take years and years of therapy to even touch. It's awful. When I was in o-town, fighting dogs escaped during a raid and tore a toddler up on that street. So yeah, imagine what it's like to live there and not have a car to escape. Glad you're alright, those aren't the kind of places you wanna get caught in, even if you do have the luxury of a car
it really is!!! one time i was leaving a concert and had to drive through camden and i turned down the wrong street. i thought i was going to get into some trouble for sure. luckily no one bothered me, just some very intimidating stares lol
Yo. I narrowly avoided car jacking not 7 years ago. I grew up in Jersey City and its safer there. Although Newark can be equally bad. Linden also, the DMV there is a terrifying cross section of what our wonderful state has on offer.
Very surprisingly heartwarming video, I can imagine the guys at the gym made you feel so much purpose in the decision to make this video. Props to the officer for sticking by your side too, you can tell he holds a lot of love in his heart. ❤️
Sanger Texas is a food desert too. We only have two dollar stores and fast food. They recently added a “produce” section at the dollar tree which is just one small fridge that never has anything in it. The closet grocery store is at least 20 minutes away accessed through highway
Not just Sanger but a lot of the rural small towns. Santa Anna, Post, etc. You fuckin' name it - they ain't got it lol. I think Santa Anna has a Dollar General and a DQ. I've played D14 up in Sanger and it ain't no different. West, East, South, North, Central, all of Texas has this problems in rural communities (not to diminish your point by the way, just adding to it). And hell - if you live in a larger metropolitan area and are poor? Good fucking luck. I lived in Denton at one point and didn't have a vehicle - that was a nightmare; only really shopped at Family Dollar off of Locust and Taco Bell off Ft Worth Dr.
Don't you have anything out there called food pantries. In certain places new york city Dunedin they have places you can sign up or show up and get free food. Once a week. Sometimes you don't even need I. D. Depending where. Also some local churches have food pantries. Just look it up on the internet. Good luck 🤞.
Clicked this out of curiosity and didn’t realize it was gonna be on my hometown. Growing up here there were plenty of opportunities and local sports. I left in 07 and the Camden hurricanes was just starting as another local program. Dayton street will forever be in my heart.
Will's documentaries are so good. These have been a very welcome surprise to your channel. I subbed years ago for simple "I try the best gym and worst gym in X city" type stuff. Relatively hollow but fun gym content. Now im here and truly enjoying and appreciating your documentary stuff. I know its more work, but its really good. Keep it up Will!
I don't often comment on videos, but I felt like this was so well done I had to. Informative, level-headed, and the people you spoke with brought so much nuance to the story. Thank you!
Something else to highlight is that the few fresh veggies and fruits these stores have are often much more expensive than processed food. So when people with minimal income have to choose how to feed their household, it becomes what's the most they can get with their money. Not what's the most healthiest.
Not from Camden but I've been there and seen the city first hand. Its wild. Really appreciate you taking time to highlight some of the struggles this type of community faces. You found a solid native to walk you through the city salute to him. Proof you don't have to be a product of your environment, while difficult there is a way. Great video def not what I expected when I clicked it.
One of my criminal justice classes delved into this. I wish I could remember more about it but it talked a lot about how you go into lower income neighborhoods and you see a lot of the same things, fast food, loan/check cashing places, liquor stores. Even just a block outside of those neighborhoods you see a dramatic difference. Where I live now is on the outskirts of what a lot of people would consider "ghetto". It is very similar to Camden and we are about 20 minutes outside of Philadelphia. There are 2 gas stations within about 1/2 mile from me and both are 5-10 cents more expensive per gallon compared to if I just went 1-2 miles outside the town. These cities and towns prey on the vulernable and help perpetuate the poverty they find themselves in until it becomes generational. It's a hard cycle to break out of, not impossible, but extremely difficult.
As a sociology major, I am so glad you touched this topic of Food Deserts . Appreciate how you listened to the folks and not being a douche in the space. Throw in Redlining and break down the strategy of the politicians, this is deeep. These communities are set to fail, kept in a loop. Making it difficult to break out of cycle
Will, I am proud of you and how far you have came. I remember watching a video of you (which seems like yesterday) talking about your day to day and you were working in an office environment. I don't watch a lot of RUclips, but when I do and check out one of your videos it is always a good one. You are a good dude, and I am happy for the success you have discovered in life.
Such an important conversation to have because allot of people don’t know about what a food desert is. There are definitely food deserts in Tampa,Fl also. Thanks Will for doing this, it’s important 🙏
will this was a straight up incredible video like potentially your best ever ???? it felt like one of those documentaries you randomly end up watching then thinking about forever. the variety in your content is crazy and I fw it so hard
I don't usually comment, but this gotta be my favorite video by you. It feels raw and real while keeping the same content you normally make - not virtue signaling. This is a really good video to watch for those people on the Jubilee video that claimed food deserts don't exist.
Wow. Amazing video. Informative and insightful. As a former new Yorker. Used to live in queens would usually go to trader Joe's. Do not eat red meat. No junk food. No BBQ No rice. Little pasta. Stay away from noodles 🍜. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Avocado salads sardines turkey and chicken cheese. Everyone should be given options choices and availability. Don't they have food pantries in Camden or in the area. We had food pantries in forest hills and it's free. That is in queens. Live in Dunedin Florida now and we have access to many food choices. Hope they have better access to healthy food. Good 🤞 luck. Thanks for a great video. 😊😊
will i appreciate you so much for giving these people a place to talk. these ppl probably go a majority of their life not feeling heard about what their city is like and what they need from it. proud of you as a creator and a person. it made me sad but also happy at the resilience of these folks. I love content like this
Tuned in for a fun short video, got an excellent, entertaining documentary that made me want to take action to help people stuck in this area. Great work. As a country, we need to help every city facing these issues.
I love this channel so so much. I love how compassionate Will is and is so dedicated to always learning about fitness and other perspectives. I have so much respect for this channel and I watch it to get inspiration. There’s only a select few people/ famous people that hit that note for this level of happiness. Thank you for this channel and please please keep it going forever. Lots and lots of love and support here. Thank you. 💕❤️💕👍🏻❤️
Amazing video man, something that calls for change. also shows how beautiful gym culture is and how much a gym buddy can help keep you on the right path
You don’t really think about how different life can be for people who aren’t that far from you. Makes you grateful to have access to stores you’ve grown to just expect to see everywhere
One of the best videos I’ve watched in awhile. I grew up in Baltimore and let me say Chris is a real one!! Hope you keep in touch with him… He made this real!!
Honestly those supermarkets look a lot like supermarkets in developing or poorer countries. Small shops with tight aisles and lots of non perishable foods. You CAN get good food though, just shows that not a lot of people are buying it.
True supermarkets here are for packaged food. we don't typically go to the supermarket for fresh fruits and vegetables. We have farmers market for that, cheaper and fresh food. Then we also have food fresh from the farm if we want to
Big dog that gave you the tour is a real one. He made this video hit different.
He a real one
And he didn't give the BS or excuses that most would. He actually gave it 100% real
He's a King
How was it supposed to "hit" exactly? Lmao
@@palestar828 it could've been a superficial video only covering the gyms and foods. The man that gave the tour gave a deep dive into the life of an actual Camden resident. Hope this helps you understand how it "hit" differently because of him.
You couldn’t have found a nicer, knowledgeable fella to show you about. He gave you such an insight into the life they live and the daily struggles. Kudos to that man for trying to change things for him and his family
humble
I really like 23:15 "The easy path is the hardest route."
Camden is home to some really incredible people
To interview someone living in the situation always makes it real. More so with those in this video, especially good choices! This is probably the best video on the food desert problem anywhere on YT.
Facts. He is a very kind person!
Honestly, that gym seems like a perfect place to work out. No judgment, help on the lift, and good attitudes.
wish my local gym had those vibes!!
@@andrewschaeffer1660 yeah same that would encourage me to lift right now i don't lift much because i always go to the gym solo
Like the good old "Gold's Gym" in my town, wish they hadn't closed it.
Ikr, mine has so much judgement.
Good attitude,good vibes
Bro those people in the gym were so damn unexpectedly wholesome
Unexpectedly…. Why?
Why?
Why are these people asking you why? How isn't it obvious
@@frododododo FOR REAL. it's so obvious they're just being sensitive.
My family is from camden some of the most genuine kind souled people you would ever meet. It is a city so you have your bad apples, but most of the people are kind, loving, and friendly who just are not as financially fortunate.
Those gym dudes were so wholesome. So friendly and so happy, wish my gym was like this. ❤️
The gym vibe of the 70 and 80's was like this. Before "fitness"
The people at the gym are usually the ones building the local economy. Most of the ones at my gym are business owners or doctors and lawyers and a lot of them are blue collar workers building roads and houses or buildings, etc. If you can build a good gym you will eventually have a safer community with jobs. Everyone is treated the same there unlike at golf clubs.
Be the change you went to see 🙏🏻
So nice and friendly, even if that town doesn't have lots of gyms I absolutely loved the vibe of that gym.
I stopped going to my local gym because of the negative vibes from a lot of the people there. No place to have a "good life" if everyone is not welcome.
Didn't expect this to become straight up documentary
Tyler Olivero style
My kid texted me this morning telling me to watch Will's new video, telling me that it's sad. I was like, "A Will Tennyson video is SAD?!" Yep.
I thought it was great. Gave me Peter Santenello vibes, but with a fitness spin.
I love Will's funny videos but the kid has a knack for doing a solid documentary, you actually got me a little emotional watching this. Bravo!!!🤙🏻
love it
THIS is what influencers should be doing. Stuff like this has to bubble up to the top so everyone sees the reality instead of judging people for making bad decisions, when the decisions have been made for them. This is a FEATURE not a BUG. Limit access, healthcare and healthy options and obviously people will suffer. Having to get in your car (that for many is a fortune to even insure) to go find a green space or get healthy food or be SAFE should not be the default situation. Keep it up man.
Is it limited? Businesses are there to make money and will stock what the people buy. If enough people ask for it, they will stock it.
@@jeetkunedoatlanta2464These businesses wont stock their shelves with high quality products off an “ask”. In the real world, money talks. Areas like this and others around it have historically been underfunded. It’s more than limited bud
@@jeetkunedoatlanta2464 you answered your own question. Businesses only care about profits. There's a greater margin on canned and packaged goods, packed small (not even in cost effective ways for consumers) than for produce. The onus shouldn't be on the consumer to ask a bodega manager who literally doesn't care about anything to go bring in fresh ingredients. Stop subsidizing junk and subsidize produce. That's why a bell pepper is $3 vs a can of Pringles
@@NerdyBirdy16 I didn't ask a question. It's not on the business owner to make sure you eat healthy, it's on you.
@@jeetkunedoatlanta2464 LOL you did ask a question. And if you actually read my comment and watched the video you'd see why people can't even be healthy when they want to. How are you gonna be healthy if the stores in your neighborhood don't stock healthy food? And there's no way to get to the stores on the other side of town to buy food? See the problem? Will literally spend time in a dilapidated city full of poverty and showed how it's difficult for locals to eat healthy bc the majority of the healthy food is inaccessible and out of reach.
I did my dissertation on food deserts! This video was so well done! Another reason people in low income areas don’t buy produce is because they are also what’s called “time poor.” You’re stretched in a million ways from long working hours doing physical labor jobs to early mornings and long commutes. Just the physical labor or being poor and working with your body makes cooking a luxury they don’t have the convenience to indulge in. Make it cheap make it quick so I can get some sleep. Having conveniences in life, like grocery delivery, Amazon, etc frees up a ton of time to do things like cook. When you’re working long days it leaves very little energy to fire up the oven. Just another barrier that I wanted to mention! Excellent video as always, will!
I sometimes think that the only thing that will practically help in these food deserts is that a handful of people make a small business out of going and getting fresh plant foods and making up foods for sale to other local households. It is hard work and not hugely profitable but can provide a consistent income. (This is what is done in our poorer townships in South Africa. There is no such thing as a paid-for school lunch in our country, so picking up something already cooked on the way home - like a braised corn on the cob, or a bowl / plate of ready made pap - a stiff corn ‘porridge’ - and a bit of chicken and cooked veg, from a roadside vendor or the local cafe which is made on a daily basis).
Ps. The community gardens are fantastic.
And yet, the expenses from consuming junk and ordering out are likely a major factor in why they have to work such long jobs, truly cooking at home will save you so much money, especially compared to delivery.
Interesting! What’s like the typical hours worked of the lower class compared to upper class?
Also because broken or non-existent families don’t pass along cooking skills. Time poverty also applies to those educated types who are hellbent on corporate advancement. Plenty of kids from even high income households don’t even know now to cook an egg or open a can of beans.
I never thought of time as being a barrier. It makes sense bc my mother was a single mom working 2 jobs on top of her main one. So she didn’t make the healthiest meals. I am in a better situation, married with 3 children & one job 35 hours a week. I am able to cook healthy & I never realized what a luxury that is.
Damn you couldn't have ran into a better guy to take you through the area and talk about it. Awesome video. Gives people serious perspective.
the quote "the easy path is the hardest route".. damn! so true!
Down to earth dude
I've lived in NJ my entire life literally no reason to ever go to Camden I went to school in Newark and it's nicer than Camden
I grew up in Camden and I clicked on here not knowing this was the city you were going to. I love that you showed a positive side of a very misunderstood community. Ollie raised you well, Mr Tennyson. Much love. 👊🏾
Me too. Seems like the people putting labels on Camden didn't talk to the people. Bless them
Rip Ollie :(
Im not from Camden but I still getting defensive at first. Im thinking why is he starting the video making it seem like its such a bad place. Cultures can be different doesnt mean one is bad and the other is good.
But he did an ok job of making sure the real people were represented
I was born and raised in Camden too. I am shocked he was there. I remember when 20/20 came there to show how we lived and basically did nothing to humanize us like he has. And I didn’t think much of it when I was a kid, but my family would drive all the way to cherry hill to get groceries. We would get our meats in Camden. And all of my snack money went to peanut chews, Days cola, and chumpies chips. Not a lot of options unless we were taking a run to cherry hill.
@@kristena6261Mr.Meats in Camden . Anyone remember that? Was 80s and 90s
That gym bro comradery with strangers during the workout was absolutely wholesome and made me wanna work out
did my first sets of pushups in months thanks to this well made vid and wholesome jacked dudes 😅
Why don't you work out then huh
Buuut u know u wont
@@Shreksmith27 ;)
Those gym bros were so wholesome. Wish more gyms were like that
The way these guys took you in at their gym was so lovely to see and how involved everyone got in each others sets was truly inspiring.
i actually know a kid currently in my college class who brings fresh produce to areas like this with his volunteer group!! it’s amazing.
❤❤❤
Welcome to Afrika
Could be you too
Is there a way to donate to them?? Like a website?
@lissa.sahsah Welcome to Amerikkka, home of the racist, homophobic, classist, and bigoted. Empathy is freely made, and freely given.
I love the evolution of wills work. From doing routines to documenting real socieo economic issues that affects peoples fitness. This is easily one of his best
he mimics another youtuber who i cant mention the name of cause he banned it in his chat
@@mahino420 yah I know who u r talking about, the title, thumbnail and concept r similar but I found when will emulates the style he is a lot less sensational in approach but I enjoy oliveira videos as well
The difference is that T. Olivera is a slimy sensationalist liar that dehumanizes people and communities for views.
Where Will here is more like a blog that’s humanizing and just letting the people speak for themselves.
@@mahino420Tommy G
Yes 👍 ❤
That mom was so sweet and hope things get better for her and all the people of Camden. They deserve a better life.
The interview with the mother and child was absolutely heartbreaking, I wish the best for her and her family
Second this
She opened up more than answered the questions. She really reaching out for attention and answers support and has been given no explanation for her issues
I hope the dude tried to get her some resources to help her
Me too
and yet she has money for tattoos.🙄dont have kids if you cant afford it. use protection. stay in school.
That's probably the best video done by Will. Literal documentary, not just typical ytube influencer vid. Hope to see more content like this one
The vid/title/thumbnail is a blatant rip off of Tyler Oliveira
@@au1317it’s not a rip off, maybe inspired from him. But that narcissist Tyler can’t own a whole style of video tf you yappin about
Yeah, this was great
it wasn't very infromative though and the title is a lie
@@au1317Tyler is a clout chasing influencer. He doesn’t care that much about the communities he visits except how much clicks he can get. He often makes fun of the people living there
Chris was an amazing dude to have on. Humble. Kind hearted. A family man. And you know he’s speaking from experience when he talks about some of these struggles. Praying for you Chris Buford.
The vibe at the gym....fellas you spoke with, & especially the dude who gave you the tour, added great perspective to this vid. So down to earth, and thoughtful. Great content! ❤🦾
The worst part of this is nj is the “garden state” we’re known for our fresh produce and there’s absolutely none in one of our biggest cities, it’s tragic
Yup a half hour drive from Camden is fresh produce stands and local farms…it would be so easy to bring some of that in :/
Yes this is by design. Marginalized people such as Black and brown people live in urban cities. Detroit has a huge food and gym desert. Also known as the city with the worst Redlining. I have to drive 20 minutes (namely to one of the RICHEST counties in the ENTIRE country ((Oakland County, look it up I can’t make this up lol.))) for a decent supermarket.
@@Kelsk3825go buy some fresh kale and Brussels sprouts and bring them to Camden. You could not give them away if you set up a food truck and paid people to eat it. You think people eat the way they do because of what’s available, it never occurs to you this is what’s available because that’s what they want.
If the residents wanted juice stands, organic coffee shops and wine bars that sell sulfite free red wine, they’d be there!
The way how Americans run this country, and each state is insane. Especially for being #1 of the world powers. Like damn… All these world leaders got all the people in crumbles. Men
Even china still enjoys eating dogs and bats.🤮
The poverty all around is gross.
It was the garden state in the late 1800s, NJ abandoned most of there farms around 1900s.. so you guys used to be know for fresh produce kinda it was more about the condition of the soil.
This is real journalism. Thank you for going out to an area you are unfamiliar with and exposing this to more people that couldn’t believe areas like this exist. The gentleman that showed you around is amazing and I hope he and his family remain blessed!
Omg anyone who doesn't believes are like this exist are out of touch ASF
@@Rosemary46840 ?
I pray the girl with the baby finds a good job and can take good care of her baby and herself.
I was thinking exactly the same thing, the interview with her was super wholesome and I really hope she makes it with her kids.
Sad that there is no way to donate to her and her baby, would have liked to be able to help them out.
@@xdane1239 honestly I was thinking the same…
@@xdane1239 I also was thinking maybe will helped off camera
By the looks of her fresh tatts she does get money from somewhere. @@xdane1239
I worked as an AmericCorps near Camden and saw the same thing, thank you for covering my home state of NJ and the problems that need to be fixed.
It's cool how he just Canadian'd his way through one of the worst places in the western world, being nice and chatting to people.
camden is not even close to one of the worst places you can be in
And canada will be worse soon. Bring in the 3rd world and become the third world
worst placese in western world?? lololol
"Western World" lol
more like worst place in Jersey lol
Will, I was born and raised here. It’s a tough little city; but, all of my education took place in Camden - from pre-school to University. I played competitive volleyball starting in the 3rd grade through college, and played softball most of my life. We worked out at the gyms in school and then at Rutgers. Bro, We got it in!! There’s so much to be said about Camden . Maybe it’s the water, perhaps it’s the adversity; but greatness is born there! 💪🏽 This doesn’t take away from the challenges; but, that goes back to the paths you guys talked about. Complicated memories. Seeing the video brought me to tears. Good work. ♥️#CMDNJ
SAME 👊🏾
Similar to the 2 paths, described in the Bible...the wide and easy path leads to Death, and the narrow and hard path leads to Life.
Choose Wisely.
22:55
Born and raised in Camden as well, I agree wholeheartedly. Surprised he didn’t spend more time in East Camden though or go to the Kroc Center in Cramer hill. Either way, complicated memories explains it all perfectly.
My taxes are higher because of your city 😡
I cried, too. I wish I could to more to help. It hurts me to not have the means to help more.
Will this is easily one of the most important and hard-hitting videos you have made. It's so insightful and so enlightening.
And I hate the fact that it didn't get as many views as your others. PLEASE don't let that deter you from uncovering the struggles of the voiceless.
The vids doing pretty well. The reviews are fantastic. I think we’ll see more of these.
1,4 million views is pretty good imo
@nouriaatangana5241 at the time I wrote this, it only had a few hundred thousand. I think the algorithm has pushed it to more people.
After seeing this 😢😞🥺...it just makes me hate politicians....with a passion.... Absolute disgrace
🔥😔🔥
I agree, I really love these videos where he visits different cities and showcases the community, and I'm glad it's taken this turn into genuinely showing the struggles of people.
Man if everyone could experience that type of loyal and compassionate friend in life we would be in a different world. All love
Out of all the videos Will does, these documentary ones are my favorite. This was such a well-done video. Chris and his buddies in the gym seem like the best type of people, and having him guide you around and give his thoughts and experiences on the past and hopeful future of Camden was great.
The man guiding Will around is the star of this video. He's so kind and so smart. I wish him and his daughters well.
The parts about the tolls keeping people in shocked me so bad.
The toll is to fund city infrastructure. People commute from town to the city, it’s not like they’re going to tax them going both ways. Look at the Golden Gate for example, tolls only get taken while going into San Francisco, not while leaving SF. In that example, one of the wealthiest counties in the world is to the north, so you can’t really say “they’re keeping them out” in that example. This is a common feature of cities in relationship to commuter towns.
@@shorecasted9295 if the tolls are meant to raise funds from the wealthier counties, why would they only charge upon leaving one of the poorest? It seems like either a crazy error that miraculously nobody has corrected or intentional city planning to keep very poor communities away from wealthier ones
The point he made about the foods being available to people there being the same stuff that's available in prison commissaries was bone chilling.
We live in a country with so much wealth. I have a BA in Econ and there's just no reason for this level of suffering other than greed and intentionally keeping people weak so our wage rates stay cheap so we're easier to exploit. We are constantly pitted against each other to distract us from the real problems which is the fact that our government and our employers are the same exact people. Ignoring this fact allows them to artificially control our wages, food, and housing prices with impunity.
@@chanceseverson they’re not, look up toll roads in that area and you will see them on nearly every major commute into the city. It’s not unique to Camden. Great video by Will but respectfully RUclipsrs don’t work normal jobs where they’re exposed to normal commutes that working class people deal with regularly in metro areas across the nation.
And it’s not meant to raise funds “from the wealthier counties” it’s to raise funds for the city from people who commute into it using city infrastructure. This is not a unique thing. Again, look at the entirety of the state of Illinois as another example. Do you think Illinois is discriminating against poor Rockford by having tolls when entering the Chicago metro area? No, because so does every other Chicago commuter city.
@@chanceseverson There's nobody actively going against Camden. But the problem is criminals and corruption. I wouldn't be surprised if the reason they did this was to reduce the amount of crime being exported from Camden into Philly
Jersey girl here…it’s a crying shame that Camden has become the Detroit of NJ, especially considering NJ is one of the highest taxed states in the country. It’s clear those dollars aren’t filtering down to Camden. City and state leadership have failed Camden overall.
And it’s been that way for decades and decades..criminal neglect
Have you been to Detroit recently? It’s nothing like that…..
@@ericswiecicki6906yeah you definitely haven’t been to Detroit lately 😂
random hate on detroit? smh
@@ericswiecicki6906 I have not but I hope it’s better than I have seen in the past, with a lot of abandoned and dilapidated housing.
This is the type of video I scroll RUclips for. It makes me realize how lucky I am to have access to fresh produce and inspires me to take advantage of more fitness resources in my town.
A lot of people don’t have the easy access to the things I take for granted. I could be doing more, I want to, I will.
My man said 'if you gon die, die!'. Hit me hard.
It really did.
fuck that hit.
Im watching this on my PC, and i got hella hyped!
@@loel7084 hi
That's some Marine Corps shit right there. Hahaha..."but did you die" was pretty common. 🤣
That's some Dolph Lundgren shit. "If he dies, he dies"
@@500secondsofsummer hi!
“yo that’s a PR” 3:36 it’s too cool to see Will continually beating his records, sometimes in the most casual of ways hahaha. LOVED the interviews + video ❤️
That's the power of the group setting!
PR = Puerto Rican
I love how fitness and gyms makes people connect. He went into the gym, knowing no one, and made connections my lifting weights. I actually made a friend today in my gym just by her asking about the workout videos I was watching on RUclips. People are afraid or intimidated by gyms but really, people are really friendly in gyms! Especially when you need help 🤗
We all are one. One community of living feeling well wishing beings. Makes me sentimental, seeing how beautiful we can be. Together.
Interesting, I've always heard opposite... But I can see it though. I get sick too often, so it's better to do things at home. But I walk in the early morning, and early morning crew are a different people. Very dedicated in our own special way😊
Reminds me of the gym I used to go to in NYC: Mid City Gym… an underground dive, but serious lifters. Good atmosphere.
Dude I feel this. Me and my gym buddy are from the sticks, and these old school type gyms are absolutely the best! May be small, but they have everything you need so you can lift hard.
This makes me sad because I literally grew up in this city and they’re showing places that I used to go too all the time. Camden is really like this, hopefully my home town gets better. I currently live in Philly
As a NJ resident, Thank you for making this video thoughtful and tasteful! you didn't go in with assumptions, you asked local people about their experiences ... very well done
More of this. Felt like a channel 9 but entirely with will's kindness and integrity.
Will just has this great personality showing in his videos, it really helps that he kinda looks like Kevin Bacon, and Bill Skarsgard.
And he's not a sexual predator
I'm in a town of 10,000 in Australia and we have 4 major supermarkets. This place having 1 for 80,000 people and there's barely anyone shopping there is wild.
I live in the Netherlands and I have 2 supermarkets within a 5 minute walk away. 3 actually, now that I think about it. That 3th one specifically sells mainly fruits and veggies.
4 for 10.000 people is insane!
It´s because America is build for cars not for people, there is no way for the majority of the people getting to that one store. In germany we got also those little Stores but damn they have fresh and cheap veggies everyday . I walk 10 minutes by foot and got 3 regular supermarkets all offering everything i need for my daily use, on my way home with public transport i got almost options on every stop to buy of one of these mentioned turkish shops to buy fresh veggies/meats/rice and so on and two times a week there is a market where i can buy directly from the producer ( farmers ), all without needing a car.
I literally live in a small town in missouri, and we have 1 grocery store. but the thing is we have less than 3,000 people.
Probably the only town in Australia with that low of a population to have 4 major supermarkets.
What town
I often piss around on my phone while watching youtube. This had me gripped and made me reflect on things. Outstanding work
Meanwhile 20mins outside of Camden is one of the richest areas in all of NJ.
Are you talking about Marlton?
Why don't they just shop there then?.
@@Ligmaballin they probably do, but they should be able to have access to healthy food in their own neighborhood
@hughjaenus2235 transportation issues; i.e. no car, bus route is over an hour one way, or lyft/uber expenses
@@izzy.michel I'd honestly walk or use a bike and just stack up, i already do it that way
I'm halfway through and this is the realest video you've ever made. Great work Will
💯
real
Yeah the fresh food supply is small but it could be much worse. The issue is that when your a single homeless mother in survival mode trying to find shelter and food and diapers for your baby, eating fruit, meeting your protein intake and working out is not going to be on your radar at all.
As you showed so well, the issue is so much deeper than just a supply issue or lack of facilities.
u can choose not to be a single homeless mother then. just don't open up your legs to random dudes. no excuse
@@primRose28-jtrI you read "single mother" and immediately assumed that it was cause of sleeping around. what a world we live in
@@omw2cry lets not fool ourselves . Reality is most of the single homeless mother are in this type of situation. Nothing wrong to state the bitter truth and raise awareness not to engage in risky behaviour.
@@primRose28-jtr You're saying "let's not fool ourselves" while making an attempt to fool other people. You seem to think that confidence and bravado can replace insight and faculty of reason. I suspect you view other people who use confidence as a poor substitute for integrity as being worthy of their platform too.
Lisa Goodman, Katya Fels, Catherine Glenn and Judy Benitez wrote an excellent piece published by VAWnet in 2006 that (together with a wealth of data that is only a google away for those with the humility to learn learn rather than the impudence to assert a falsehood into reality through their bluster) shows that homeless women are extremely likely to experience sexual violence.
It's profoundly worrying that you and many others felt so comfortable talking arrogantly about things that you obviously have no knowledge about and neither the intelligence nor experience to draw inferences on.
Stop trying to hide you ignorance with immature posturing. You risk living your life as a very confident and very lonely liar.
@@primRose28-jtr I'll pray for you to find some kindness and compassion in your heart instead of judging others first, that's the easy road that so many are on these days
10:45 PUT SOME NEW BATTERIES IN THAT DAMN SMOKE ALARM
Hey that's a rite of passage
Will, this has to be the best video I have seen you post. As many have said, you created a documentary showing some harsh realities people face in the United States. Those men in the gym were so welcoming, and seeing the gym community they had created was heartwarming. Chris is the star of this video, and he was terrific in showing you around Cambden and giving insight into how things really are for his community. Chris, I applaud you for wanting to improve things for yourself, your family, and the community; please don't stop. Thank you for sharing your community with the world.
Will, I hope you make more videos like this. You open people's eyes to what is happening in this country, and because many of us live in bubbles, we never have to think about things like this. Thanks for making this video, an keep it up.
They didn’t play John Mayer for very long 😂
No one should
He’s so out of place
Who would, lol?
They played the entire song
@@Buffscorpion 🤣🤣🤣
The best way to describe something is with love. This is a beautiful video, including the brotherhood and love between people in a harsh situation. Not looking down at anyone, just describing their situation.
the reality is thieves nobody wants to open a grocery store in these fatherless communities lets not sugar coated
Having a platform like RUclips is so important for insight and I depend journalism like this. I think we often forget that it's more than just entertainment. This was true education and insight that gives hope and a voice to the unheard. Loved this content. Hope to see more, and my only suggestion would be to maybe make the questions a bit less accusatory at first. You meant some incredible individuals but I think it's always leads to the best results when they don't feel they're defending themselves from you personally.
Every now and then, throw one of these type of videos in the mix. Great content, Will!
Agreed
these documentary-style videos are the BEST in my opinion
Buff, Canadian, Tommy G. Perfect combo. Lol
I've been a fan of yours for a long time but videos like this has definitely earned you a new level of admiration from me!!!! Good shit!
I'm an international student living in a run-down district of an American city similar to Camden and have 3 things to add: (1) A lot of the locals I've talked to are facing economic misery and often one of the only things that gets them through the day is greasy comfort food, and (2) I live on top of a bodega run by two kindly Latin American seniors who I've befriended - Since starting weightlifting, I've talked to the lady and requested that she stock some fresher, leaner protein sources... and she did! So while the bodegas lack the economies of scale that supermarkets can when leveraging cost effective produce, the personable scale of those stores can allow for some requests if you care about your diet.
Lastly, (3) I have a cynical view on community gardens because I worked in the City's city council over the summer and saw how politicians would "gift" these community gardens to food desert communities, only for the gardens to quickly fall into disrepair after 1 season due to a lack of coordination after the excitement of the first harvest, and also the lack of staple foods and grains that these urban communities can realistically grow in North American climates. The politicians look good by doing these gardens (which are often just repurposed City land that was already lying fallow, so there's a lot of political reward for very little political cost), but the real problem of food deserts is never fixed by these gardens. Especially in a crime-ridden city like Camden, a lot of these gardens end up being occupied by organized crime elements that end up using them as hang-out spots, dissuading anyone from tending the garden. The only time I've seen community gardens work is one that was housed within an inner courtyard of an affordable housing complex - The enclosed nature of it allowed for constant surveillance and management by the abutters, and the housing complex also organized a compost collection program which provided constant fertilization and an indirect reason for every resident to contribute to the garden. So TLDR, community gardens only work if they're literally right outside where the gardening community lives.
I think waiting for a large supermarket chain to come into Camden is ideal, but while the City waits for a chain to arrive, they should maybe try subsidizing the existing food stores / bodegas. Sure they looked run-down and contributed to the problem by stocking processed foods, but if Camden City Hall could help these small stores negotiate with food wholesalers to supply them with scalable produce, we could create a situation where the small stores can justify the selling of produce over packaged goods because of the higher profit margins from government subsidization. If the subsidy scheme goes well over a period of 5 years, you might even see some of the more successful bodegas evolve and grow into larger supermarkets that could fulfill the City's initial wish for a scalable supermarket.
Ive built and cared for three community gardens, one of them being for the provincial university and we would rather people take who are in need then for it to go to waste. There was a guy who would sneak in and steal tomatoes and carrots but we “caught” him one time and told him that’s what this is for!!
It’s too bad people never took care of them, because they can be so amazing. Our farmers made a “pizza garden” which is what it sounds like, garden cut and shaped like pizza and growing ingredients for pizza, wheat, tomatoes, basil, oregano, onion, garlic, mushrooms, bell peppers, but other side ingredients like carrots, kale, zucchini, potatoes…. It takes soooo much work and a strong bonded community to make it work.
Cities who want or need this also need to invest more in the community as a whole.
@@Shottas4Twenty good for you guys, I’m proud of your effort. While the economist in me bridles at the notion of unlimited and unhindered distribution, it *is* the right thing to do - and so it’s up to us to design gardens that can somehow keep up with constant outflow. I wish perennial food crops like plantains (bananas) or mangoes could be GMO’d to survive colder climates, so that food could be available all year round from these city gardens.
You're the first person I've seen in the comments to even mention to word crime, which seems to be the elephant in the room here. A city of 80,000 should have a lot more than what Camden has.
It's a whole ecosystem. It's not just some vegetables that are missing, it's all the other staples, and the knowledge and will and time to buy them, prepare them and cook them, and then do it all over tomorrow.
Man that gym makes me nostalgic about my old gym in my home town. I go to a big franchise one now because I moved, sure the machines are better and newer, more variety, but you can't beat the atmosphere and comradery of a small town / neighborhood gym.
This has got to be one of your most eye opening videos. You seem to make everyone feel comfortable you interviewed and did some great background research 🙏
South NJ native and the problem is corporate layout not true availability. We HAVE the produce, but instead of it staying local it’s sold and shipped out everywhere else, 20-30 mins SE from Camden and it’s all farm fields, same thing in Atlantic City, ALSO a food desert, 25 mins W and it’s all farms. It’s crazy to see.
We are called the Garden State remember
Chris was such a nice guy man. Great video
What made this video complete was the smoke alarm chirping in the background. 😂
Will, you’ve went from gym and eating videos to straight up on the streets documenting bravo 👏
The evolution is amazing.
1:27 Thicker Things 🤣
I want that shirt.
me too
Me too
I need that shirt
Hard R
Thicker Things dude rally bout his community, stay blessed homie and good looking out for yours!!!
I’m from NJ, about 15 mins from Camden. I will say the toll thing is not specifically to keep Camden residents from going to Philly. The entire state is that way, you have to pay tolls to leave NJ but none to come in. Every bridge is that way. Unfair, nonetheless, especially for the people of Camden who don’t have the resources or access to them.
Drugs, Processed food, sugar everywhere, high sodium foods, and alcohol are a dangerous combo for people.
It's like they don't want anyone here to live past the age of 60.
I hope this video shines a light on this area, and many areas in the US like this.
so many places in America. nowhere to work, vacant places falling apart yet rent is crazy expensive, food is cheap but lacks actual nutrition.
@@seattlegrrlie I heard it's bad up in Canada too... *sigh* I need a time machine. Take me back to when things were affordable and people had less to be upset about :/
I live relatively close to here (an hour) in NJ and work in EMS. Diabetes and diet-related illness in general are completely out of control. A lot of our patients have what’s jokingly referred to as ‘the standard 3’ which is hypertension (high BP), diabetes, and kidney disease/failure. They need to be teaching in schools this stuff isn’t just unhealthy, it will literally kill you and cause you to be tied to machines for the rest of your life. Dialysis 3-4 hours a session for 3x a week is a shitty way to spend a life. And if you don’t do it, blood issues accumulate and you feel worse and worse until you die, within weeks/months of stopping treatment.
You guys living in first world countries and have everytjing you need. These towns end up like this because lack of education only
@@VastardokKukiaoVery ignorant to believe that places end up like this because of lack of education lol.
So wrong dear.
You don't understand the USA at all.
Crazy to think I use to be one of them addicts walking these streets and know every single road he was on, I am now going on 4 years sober after moving out of this city and started my fitness journey. I didn’t expect clicking this video this would hit home so hard. Thank you for this
Insanely proud of you, keep going!!
"We don't run for exercise here!" Damn, this hit so hard...
Man, When I was younger I moved to Dayton, Ohio for a teaching job. We had to be at work at 7:15 daily. I´ve always been into fitness, so the first day I went out to run before work around 5:45 am. On three occasions I saw crackheads or whoever running away from me as I ran. I never, ever went out to run in the morning there again. I lived there for about two years then had enough and moved out. Once a dude followed me from McDonald´s all the way to work and threatened to shoot me because he said I cut him in line in the drive through.
That's like in my area of Jersey they don't bike for exercise they bike to get to work because they had too many DUIs and they gotta get to work somehow
non-white shitholes be like
@@jasonito23Dayton is rough. Suburbs like beaver creek are okay but Dayton itself is rough
@@d.n.8919 Yeah. I don't like Dayton. I witnessed and even got a little involved in a lot of nonsense when I lived there. I'll never return unless the city changes.
Loved the sense of community there - the bond between fitness lovers can be so special and inclusive and this clip showed that!
This was done with tact. Kudos for seeking to understand instead of judging and keeping compassion and humanity as you move through the world. Really appreciate the direction your content has gone, more so the integrity you have maintained. You're talking about fitness and health-related issues with real people and holding space for the nuance/intersectionality of it all. Refreshing to see compared to most of the 'fitness' content produced on social media. Making us Canadians proud!
Hitting me with the feels first thing in the morning. Glad you're bringing awareness to these problems, but I'm more glad that you're showing that change is already in progress. It can only get better from here.
Dude is mad brave for going to Camden. I got lost there for 2 hours since I was getting my phone fixed and didn’t know how to get home. And dude. Camden is fucking scary.
It reminds me of Oakland here in CA. So many amazing people trapped in awful circumstances. So many don't survive or exist with emotional damages that would take years and years of therapy to even touch. It's awful. When I was in o-town, fighting dogs escaped during a raid and tore a toddler up on that street. So yeah, imagine what it's like to live there and not have a car to escape. Glad you're alright, those aren't the kind of places you wanna get caught in, even if you do have the luxury of a car
it really is!!! one time i was leaving a concert and had to drive through camden and i turned down the wrong street. i thought i was going to get into some trouble for sure. luckily no one bothered me, just some very intimidating stares lol
Yo. I narrowly avoided car jacking not 7 years ago. I grew up in Jersey City and its safer there. Although Newark can be equally bad. Linden also, the DMV there is a terrifying cross section of what our wonderful state has on offer.
Camden is the scariest city in New Jersey 🥲
@@jetfa9most of Jersey city is safe except for the hill and I Dont think it's the worst
Very surprisingly heartwarming video, I can imagine the guys at the gym made you feel so much purpose in the decision to make this video. Props to the officer for sticking by your side too, you can tell he holds a lot of love in his heart. ❤️
Sanger Texas is a food desert too. We only have two dollar stores and fast food. They recently added a “produce” section at the dollar tree which is just one small fridge that never has anything in it. The closet grocery store is at least 20 minutes away accessed through highway
Not just Sanger but a lot of the rural small towns. Santa Anna, Post, etc. You fuckin' name it - they ain't got it lol. I think Santa Anna has a Dollar General and a DQ. I've played D14 up in Sanger and it ain't no different. West, East, South, North, Central, all of Texas has this problems in rural communities (not to diminish your point by the way, just adding to it). And hell - if you live in a larger metropolitan area and are poor? Good fucking luck. I lived in Denton at one point and didn't have a vehicle - that was a nightmare; only really shopped at Family Dollar off of Locust and Taco Bell off Ft Worth Dr.
I lived in a small mountain town growing up, and we had to drive an hour and a half to get groceries.
@@blazeit505same but there was also always game meat and fish in the freezer
Don't you have anything out there called food pantries. In certain places new york city Dunedin they have places you can sign up or show up and get free food. Once a week. Sometimes you don't even need I. D. Depending where. Also some local churches have food pantries. Just look it up on the internet. Good luck 🤞.
This video was legit educational and showed such a personal window into a city. Thanks for putting in the effort to make this vid
You don't usually do seriously thought-provoking videos.
I recommend you do more of them. This was worth the watch.
This was a superb episode Will. Would love to see more of this style/docu series type stuff.
Clicked this out of curiosity and didn’t realize it was gonna be on my hometown. Growing up here there were plenty of opportunities and local sports. I left in 07 and the Camden hurricanes was just starting as another local program. Dayton street will forever be in my heart.
Will's documentaries are so good. These have been a very welcome surprise to your channel. I subbed years ago for simple "I try the best gym and worst gym in X city" type stuff. Relatively hollow but fun gym content. Now im here and truly enjoying and appreciating your documentary stuff. I know its more work, but its really good. Keep it up Will!
I don't often comment on videos, but I felt like this was so well done I had to. Informative, level-headed, and the people you spoke with brought so much nuance to the story. Thank you!
I love how welcoming these folks are. Such positive people. We need to see more people being so friendly to each other.
Something else to highlight is that the few fresh veggies and fruits these stores have are often much more expensive than processed food. So when people with minimal income have to choose how to feed their household, it becomes what's the most they can get with their money. Not what's the most healthiest.
Plus when you’re stressed, you know your kids won’t bitch about Mac and cheese the way the would about broccoli
I never seen veggies/fruits cost more than processed and I’m from Baltimore. That’s just an excuse, go to a farmers market and not the grocery store
Mfr said go to the farmers market. Maybe shuttup and watch the video. @@Himathyyy
@@Himathyyy there's dumb and then there is you. a new category of dumb.
@Himathyyy As a former camden resident, that place was the definition of a hood
Big guy that gave you a tour is a good man and father. Wish him and his daughters the best.
Not from Camden but I've been there and seen the city first hand. Its wild. Really appreciate you taking time to highlight some of the struggles this type of community faces. You found a solid native to walk you through the city salute to him. Proof you don't have to be a product of your environment, while difficult there is a way. Great video def not what I expected when I clicked it.
One of my criminal justice classes delved into this. I wish I could remember more about it but it talked a lot about how you go into lower income neighborhoods and you see a lot of the same things, fast food, loan/check cashing places, liquor stores. Even just a block outside of those neighborhoods you see a dramatic difference. Where I live now is on the outskirts of what a lot of people would consider "ghetto". It is very similar to Camden and we are about 20 minutes outside of Philadelphia. There are 2 gas stations within about 1/2 mile from me and both are 5-10 cents more expensive per gallon compared to if I just went 1-2 miles outside the town. These cities and towns prey on the vulernable and help perpetuate the poverty they find themselves in until it becomes generational. It's a hard cycle to break out of, not impossible, but extremely difficult.
It's sad that you can take a class on this stuff and come out knowing less than when you went in.
As a sociology major, I am so glad you touched this topic of Food Deserts . Appreciate how you listened to the folks and not being a douche in the space. Throw in Redlining and break down the strategy of the politicians, this is deeep. These communities are set to fail, kept in a loop. Making it difficult to break out of cycle
Systemic bigotry & violence is the closest thing to a devil on this earth.
That’s exactly what I was thinking but as a child and adolescent studies major 🥲
Literally systemic oppression
@@bambiari dooppeeee
Deserts...though 'desserts' might be true as well.
Will, I am proud of you and how far you have came. I remember watching a video of you (which seems like yesterday) talking about your day to day and you were working in an office environment.
I don't watch a lot of RUclips, but when I do and check out one of your videos it is always a good one. You are a good dude, and I am happy for the success you have discovered in life.
That gym and the people in there were so wholesome, best of wishes for all of em.
Loved this. Made me more aware about what others go through, will pray for Camden ❤🙏🏽
Such an important conversation to have because allot of people don’t know about what a food desert is. There are definitely food deserts in Tampa,Fl also. Thanks Will for doing this, it’s important 🙏
will this was a straight up incredible video like potentially your best ever ???? it felt like one of those documentaries you randomly end up watching then thinking about forever. the variety in your content is crazy and I fw it so hard
I don't usually comment, but this gotta be my favorite video by you. It feels raw and real while keeping the same content you normally make - not virtue signaling. This is a really good video to watch for those people on the Jubilee video that claimed food deserts don't exist.
Wow. Amazing video. Informative and insightful. As a former new Yorker. Used to live in queens would usually go to trader Joe's. Do not eat red meat. No junk food. No BBQ No rice. Little pasta. Stay away from noodles 🍜. Eat lots of fruits and vegetables. Avocado salads sardines turkey and chicken cheese. Everyone should be given options choices and availability. Don't they have food pantries in Camden or in the area. We had food pantries in forest hills and it's free. That is in queens. Live in Dunedin Florida now and we have access to many food choices. Hope they have better access to healthy food. Good 🤞 luck. Thanks for a great video. 😊😊
will i appreciate you so much for giving these people a place to talk. these ppl probably go a majority of their life not feeling heard about what their city is like and what they need from it. proud of you as a creator and a person. it made me sad but also happy at the resilience of these folks. I love content like this
Tuned in for a fun short video, got an excellent, entertaining documentary that made me want to take action to help people stuck in this area. Great work. As a country, we need to help every city facing these issues.
I love this channel so so much. I love how compassionate Will is and is so dedicated to always learning about fitness and other perspectives. I have so much respect for this channel and I watch it to get inspiration. There’s only a select few people/ famous people that hit that note for this level of happiness. Thank you for this channel and please please keep it going forever. Lots and lots of love and support here. Thank you. 💕❤️💕👍🏻❤️
Amazing video man, something that calls for change. also shows how beautiful gym culture is and how much a gym buddy can help keep you on the right path
loving the vibes of the people in the gym
You don’t really think about how different life can be for people who aren’t that far from you. Makes you grateful to have access to stores you’ve grown to just expect to see everywhere
That mum broke my heart. Much respect and all the best to your kid
I really miss lifting unfortunately due to issues with pervasive vertigo I can’t anymore but thanks for showing this. What an amazing gym!!!
One of the best videos I’ve watched in awhile. I grew up in Baltimore and let me say Chris is a real one!! Hope you keep in touch with him… He made this real!!
The smoke detector chirping in the first Bodega had me dying 11:30 😂
Huge fan of this. More content like this in similar areas would be an instant watch for me.
Honestly those supermarkets look a lot like supermarkets in developing or poorer countries. Small shops with tight aisles and lots of non perishable foods. You CAN get good food though, just shows that not a lot of people are buying it.
True supermarkets here are for packaged food. we don't typically go to the supermarket for fresh fruits and vegetables. We have farmers market for that, cheaper and fresh food. Then we also have food fresh from the farm if we want to