Inova Health System Partners with Farmer’s Markets to Double Healthy Foods

One of First Health Systems in Country to Assist Food Stamp Recipients Buy Fresh and Locally Grown Foods

Falls Church, VA – (May 10, 2011) – Inova Health System is one of the first healthcare systems in the nation to partner with Buy Fresh Buy Local®, a national organization that connects customers with fresh and locally grown food.

Inova Health System will be matching the first $10 of purchases made with food stamps or Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) at the Four Mile Run Farmers Artisans Market in Alexandria, Va., and Frying Pan Farmers Market in Herndon, Va. beginning in May.

WHAT:
Kickoff of Inova Health System Matching Double Dollar Program

WHO:
William Euille, Mayor, City of Alexandria
Bob Lazaro, Community Affairs, Inova Health System

WHEN:
Sunday, May 15

WHERE:
Four Mile Farmers Artisans Market
4109 Mount Vernon Ave.
Alexandria, VA

“For the first time in this region Inova Health System will be matching the first $10 of purchases made with food stamps or SNAP at two local farmers markets,” said Bob Lazaro, Community Affairs Executive, Inova Health System. “Our goal is to make it easier for all to find, choose, and appreciate great local foods while supporting the farmers and lands that produce them.”

For more information about Inova Health System’s partnership with Buy Fresh Buy Local or to find farmers markets in your area visit inova.org/buyfreshbuylocal.

Inova Health System is a not-for-profit healthcare system based in Northern Virginia that consists of hospitals and other health services, including emergency- and urgent-care centers, home care, nursing homes, mental health and blood donor services, and wellness classes. Governed by a voluntary board of community members, Inova’s mission is to improve the health of the diverse community it serves through excellence in patient care, education and research. Inova provides a healthy environment for its patients, families, visitors, staff and physicians by prohibiting tobacco use on its campuses.