Mobile food bank is bringing discount produce to Lafayette area this summer
Second Harvest food bank is bringing quality groceries to underserved and at-risk communities. The Makin’ Groceries Mobile Market is designed to assist areas known as food deserts by providing fresh produce at discounted prices.
The mobile grocery store has several pop-up shops throughout Acadia, Iberia, Lafayette, St. Landry, St. Martin and Vermilion parishes. The pop up times vary but the market is usually open from 9 -11 a.m.
Produce is sourced from local farms as much as possible to help Acadiana farmers continue their craft. Second Harvest aims to help the community in as many ways as possible.
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“The mobile markets have a great selection of healthful items from every food group. From fresh fruits and vegetables to pasta, you’re sure to find everything you need to prepare delicious, nutritious, inexpensive meals,” said Jessica Randazzo, LSU AgCenter SNAP-Ed nutrition agent.
Makin’ Groceries Mobile Market first came about in 2021 and both LSU and Second Harvest saw the program as a success. Helping individuals and families especially during the summer when children are out of school is their goal.
Each event is open to the public and includes free food samples, recipes and healthy eating. Groceries can be purchased using SNAP, cash, debit or credit.
"It was very important to bring this fresh produce to their communities," explained Kristen Wesley Community Wellness and Nutrition manager for Second Harvest. "We chose these areas because many don't have busing systems or nearby stores and the closest stores are too far out to walk."
Wesley explained that due to high inflation nationwide Second Harvest has seen a major increase in people needing their services. The mobile market is one way to help combat these problems.
They will be at St. Mary Magdalen Christian Service Center in Abbeville and Express Inn in Lafayette this week. The full monthly calendar for June can be found below. This program is offered throughout the entire year.
Financial and food donations are being accepted. To find out more call 337-237-7711.
For more information about nutrition education opportunities through the LSU AgCenter, contact Randazzo at jrandazzo@agcenter.lsu.edu. For more information about the mobile market schedule, visit no-hunger.org/mobilemarket.
Connect with WaTeasa Freeman by email wfreeman@theadvertiser.com, Twitter @wateasaf TikTok @theadvertisereats
This article originally appeared on Lafayette Daily Advertiser: Second Harvest Food Bank bringing affordable groceries across Acadiana
