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Meet Your Neighborhood Grocery on Wheels
In an innovative move to combat food insecurity, Virtua Health has launched the Eat Well Mobile Grocery Store, a grocery store on wheels that brings fresh, affordable food directly to South Jersey neighborhoods. This grocery truck is not just a convenience—it's a crucial lifeline for communities battling the harsh reality of food deserts. Residents now have access to healthy options that might otherwise be unavailable due to location or cost.
Why Food Access Matters
The concept of food deserts—areas where residents have limited access to fresh produce and wholesome foods—poses serious health risks. Studies show that a lack of nutritious food options can contribute to a range of health problems, including obesity and diabetes. Virtua Health’s mission through this mobile grocery is not merely to sell food, but rather to promote overall wellness. As Dennis Pullin, Virtua Health’s President and CEO, puts it: “We see food as medicine.”
Providing Affordable Choices
The prices at the Eat Well Mobile Grocery Store are significantly reduced, with items costing 35 to 50% less than typical supermarket prices. This approach not only makes healthy eating more accessible but also encourages residents to choose nutritious options over processed convenience foods. Highlights include fresh fruits and vegetables, a freezer section, and canned goods—everything a shopper might need for healthy meals at home.
A Reliable Schedule for Convenience
To ensure community members can benefit from this service, the Eat Well Mobile Grocery Store operates on a consistent schedule. It visits various locations throughout Camden and Burlington counties, including senior residences and community centers. From Delanco to Willingboro, the truck serves as a reliable source of nourishment for individuals and families who may lack transportation to a traditional grocery store. Here’s the schedule in detail:
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Tuesdays:
Living Springs Senior Residence, Delanco (9 to 10 a.m.)
Doreatha D. Campbell Senior Housing, Willingboro (10:15 to 11:15 a.m.) -
Wednesdays:
Baldwin's Run Senior Residence, Camden (9 to 10 a.m.)
The Branches at Centerville, Camden (10:15 to 11:15 a.m.)
Weinberg Commons, Cherry Hill (2:30 to 3:30 p.m.) -
Thursdays:
Christ Care Senior Housing, Sicklerville (9 to 10 a.m.)
Palmyra Community Center, Palmyra (12:30 to 1:30 p.m.)
From Bus to Truck: Evolution of a Community Resource
This program first emerged in 2020 utilizing an old New Jersey Transit bus, showcasing the resourcefulness of the program's creators. The success indicated by thousands of transactions allowed for an upgrade to the current truck, making the program much more efficient and effective. The transformation reflects a commitment not only to providing fresh food but elevating the entire shopping experience for users.
The Broader Impact on Community Health
The availability of healthier food options can lead to substantial changes in public health, particularly in demographics that historically struggle with diet-related illnesses. The mobilization of accessible grocery services is generating discussions around sustainable solutions to food insecurity, with many looking to replicate the models seen with Virtua Health. As access increases, so does the chance for communities to thrive.
Conclusion: A Step Towards Wellness
The arrival of the Eat Well Mobile Grocery Store is a pivotal development for South Jersey. By bridging the gap between unhealthy eating and nutritional education, Virtua Health is proving that better access to food can lead to better health outcomes. Community members are encouraged to take advantage of this invaluable resource, and with regular visits scheduled in a familiar format, making healthier choices has never been easier. Individuals are urged to mark their calendars, visit the truck, and significantly enhance their dietary habits through the available selection.
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