Here’s Where You Can Get Fresh Produce as National Public Health Week Starts Monday
Emphasizing Health and Fresh Produce Availability in San Antonio
With National Public Health Week commencing this Monday lasting through April 7, cities across the United States are shedding light on the importance of health improvement. In San Antonio, city officials are underscoring the necessity for wider access to fresh fruits and vegetables.
Healthy Corner Stores Program – A Ray of Hope
In 2019, the Metropolitan Health District kick-started the Healthy Corner Stores program. The objective of the program is to provide an abundance of fruits and vegetables at lower prices to smaller stores situated in areas considered as food deserts. “We rely on USDA’s food insecurity data to designate locations deemed food insecure throughout San Antonio…they are usually within half a mile to a mile from a food store, H-E-B,” stated Jennifer Lopez-Garza, a community health worker at Metro Health.
Presently, 45 stores within the city are participating in the program, and they all accept SNAP benefits. Royal Blue Grocery in downtown San Antonio is one such participator. “We have a predominance of fruits currently as it sells better. But the program enables us to broaden our scope and offer more options,” iterated Jessica Provost, the owner of Royal Blue Grocery.
Program Expansion
The Healthy Corner Stores initiative has plans for future expansion. According to Lopez-Garza, the city aims to accommodate an additional five stores into the program by 2025.
About The Authors
Stephania Jimenez is an experienced anchor noted for her contribution to The Nightbeat. After starting her journalism voyage in 2006 post-graduation from Syracuse University, she anchored at several notable media agencies. Although a native of Brooklyn, Stephania regards Texas as her home.
Sal Salazar is celebrated for his contributions as a photojournalist at numerous institutions. He began his illustrious career back in 1995 at an ABC Affiliate in Lubbock, where he covered many high-profile news events. In his leisure time, he is a gaming enthusiast and loves traveling with his wife.
Remember to maintain a healthy lifestyle and include fresh fruits and vegetables in your diet, especially during National Public Health Week.
