Affordable Healthy Food Initiative Expands to Atlantic City: Virtua Health's "Eat Well" Program

Virtua Health, known for its commitment to community wellness, is set to launch its renowned "Eat Well" Mobile Grocery Store program in Atlantic City, beginning this Friday. This initiative aims to provide access to nutritious food options at prices below the market rate, fostering healthier choices for residents.

Spearheaded by the New Jersey Economic Development Authority and supported by the governor's vision to enhance food accessibility in underprivileged areas, the interim expansion of Virtua's program to Atlantic City is a significant step forward. The program is designed to accept various payment methods, including EBT SNAP benefits, cash, and credit cards, ensuring accessibility to a wide range of customers.

What sets the "Eat Well" program apart is not just its provision of affordable food but also its holistic approach. Alongside the opportunity to purchase quality groceries, the initiative offers invaluable assistance. Staff members will be on hand to address customer queries on food preparation techniques and provide guidance on nutritional practices.

The overarching goal of the Eat Well initiative is to ensure that South Jersey residents not only have access to fresh, affordable foods but also receive education and support to embrace good nutrition as a way of life. This commitment isn't new; it originated in 2017 with the launch of the Eat Well Mobile Farmers Market and encompasses two Food Farmacies located within Virtua medical campuses. Importantly, all Eat Well programs operate year-round, demonstrating a sustained dedication to community health.

April Schetler, assistant vice president of community health engagement for Virtua, emphasized the program's consistency and reliability, stating, "Hunger is just as prevalent in the winter as it is during the warmer months or 'growing season.' Our mobile programs visit the same locations every week so that our customers know they can depend on us."

For those seeking more information about Virtua Health's Eat Well programs or wanting to support the cause of feeding South Jersey, additional details can be found at Virtua.org/EatWell and GiveToVirtua.org, respectively.

The expansion of Virtua's "Eat Well" program to Atlantic City heralds a significant stride toward fostering a healthier, more food-secure community. With a focus on accessibility, education, and sustained support, Virtua Health continues to champion the well-being of South Jersey residents.