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Last updated on Monday, May 13, 2013
(UNDATED) - Indiana University Health is considering how it can expand on a successful program to address “food deserts” across the state.
Currently IU Health runs its "Garden on the Go" program in 19 locations throughout Marion County. The The program takes the farmer's market concept to senior centers, schools and other public places in communities were affordable fresh fruits and vegetables are hard to find.
IU Health Community Outreach and Engagement Manager Lisa Cole says after 2 years of success, they are looking at ways to take the program out to IU Health communities across the state facing the same issues.
"Food Deserts" are described as communities where grocery stores are hard to find, where convenience stores outnumber grocery stores or where fresh produce is of poor quality or just too expensive.
"Garden-on-the-Go" gets its produce from Indianapolis Fruit, so their inventory stays seasonal from local, regional and national growers.
Cole says as they look to expand "Garden-on-the-Go," they will look at their current success and shortfalls, as well as the needs of each IU Health community to determine if the current model or new models will be needed to effectively distribute the produce.
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