| ‘Garden on the Go’ Combats Obesity |
| Friday, 22 July 2011 17:36 | |||
 Indianapolis, Indiana, July 2011— According to the United States Department of Agriculture, 68 percent of residents of low-income neighborhoods throughout the nation live in “food deserts,” or areas lacking affordable, healthy food options. Studies show a lack of access to healthy food options can lead to obesity and other chronic illnesses, which is why Indiana University Health is launching its new mobile produce truck, “Garden on the Go.”Twitter@gardenongo The Garden on the Go truck will make a dozen stops each week in Marion County (the area that includes the city of Indianapolis) neighborhoods, including several senior and public housing facilities, offering fresh fruits and vegetables at affordable prices. Starting May 4, customers will be able to board the truck and shop for everything from apples to zucchini, and can pay with cash, credit or SNAP/EBT. Green B.E.A.N. Delivery, a produce and grocery home delivery service, will handle the day-to-day operations of the truck, which will run year-round. “As Indiana’s most comprehensive healthcare system, IU Health is committed to pursuing innovative strategies to improve the health of our communities,” said Ron Stiver, IU Health’s senior vice president for engagement and public affairs. “By bringing affordable, healthy foods directly to our neighbors, Garden on the Go will help address one of the leading causes of obesity.” “We are excited about the opportunity to partner with IU Health to provide this much needed service to Indianapolis communities,” said Matt Ewer, president and co-founder of Green B.E.A.N. Delivery. “IU Health’s vision to take a proactive approach to healthcare through providing positive nutrition choices in underserved neighborhoods is a perfect fit for Green B.E.A.N Delivery. We are thrilled to see a leader in the health care industry take such a progressive approach to community involvement, nutrition and health care. “ Garden on the Go is part of IU Health’s comprehensive initiative to fight the obesity epidemic by improving access to healthy foods and safe places to engage in physical activity in high-poverty neighborhoods. According to the Indiana State Department of Health, 29 percent of adolescents and 65 percent of adults in Indiana are overweight or obese. Follow Garden on the Go on Twitter@gardenongo. Named among the “Best Hospitals in America” by U.S. News & World Report for 13 consecutive years, Indiana University Health is dedicated to providing a unified standard of preeminent, patient-centered care. A unique partnership with Indiana University School of Medicine – one of the nation’s leading medical schools – gives our highly skilled physicians access to innovative treatments using the latest research and technology. Green B.E.A.N. Delivery is an online home delivery service that provides organic produce and natural groceries to its members. Currently serving greater Indianapolis and Fort Wayne, Ind., Cincinnati, Dayton and Columbus, Ohio, and Louisville, Kentucky., the company provides an avenue for local artisans and farmers to share their crafts and talents with community members. “B.E.A.N.” stands for the principles that guide the company’s mission: Biodynamic, Education, Agriculture and Nutrition. SOURCE: Garden on the Go
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