Burlington Review

Virtua Health has initiated a new Mobile Grocery Store aimed at reducing food insecurity and improving access to fresh food. This initiative is part of a broader $1.5 million state-funded investment in Virtua’s "Eat Well" food access programs that also includes a Mobile "Food Farmacy" set to launch in the summer. This expansion is designed to enhance Virtua’s Eat Well programs, which already feature a Mobile Farmers Market and two Food Farmacies.

The new Eat Well Mobile Grocery Store replaces the original model, offering more space and comfort for customers and staff. Dennis W. Pullin, Virtua President and CEO, stated, “Our original Mobile Grocery Store gave this program a fantastic start over the past four years. Now, our new and improved vehicle will provide even greater comfort, service, and convenience for our customers and staff.”

Longtime customer Emma Ryan-Furlonge expressed satisfaction with the new vehicle, saying, “It’s wonderful. I like the spacious part. I like the compartments—they have it like a supermarket. It’s great, it’s convenient. I can count on having fresh food every week.”

The 40-foot van underwent design modifications based on feedback, offering a wider aisle, more storage, and a slide-out space for health consultations. Shopping prices are significantly lower than local retail, and the program accepts SNAP benefits, welcoming all shoppers.

Senator Troy Singleton played a key role in the expansion of these programs. CEO Pullin noted, “We are grateful to Senator Singleton, who’s been a steadfast advocate for local food access. His tireless efforts resulted in essential new funding from the State of New Jersey, which enabled this expansion of Virtua’s Eat Well programs to even more area residents.”

Senator Singleton highlighted the importance of the program by stating, “Programs like Virtua’s Mobile Grocery Store are a lifeline for families facing food insecurity—and the numbers speak for themselves. With more than 7,500 transactions last year, this initiative is not only working, it’s transforming lives. I was proud to secure $1.5 million in funding for two new vehicles, which will bring accessible, affordable, healthy food options directly to our communities.”

The initiative has shown success, with customers reporting increased fruit and vegetable consumption and more nutritious meals. Virtua’s Eat Well programs completed over 47,000 transactions last year, indicating increased demand for these services.

Feeding America's data shows a clear need for such programs, with significant percentages of Camden and Burlington County residents facing food insecurity. State funding supports the purchase of new vehicles, renovations, inventory, and staff support. Philanthropic investments totaling $10 million since 2017 have ensured consistent operation.

Virtua also stocks culturally relevant food to meet the preferences of various communities. Debra Moran, senior vice president of health equity and community programs, emphasized the importance of customer experience, "We want everyone to have an outstanding experience with us, so it’s essential that our customers feel seen, respected, and understood."

In addition to groceries, the Mobile Grocery Store offers free nutrition education and health screenings. Community health workers provide consultations and referrals to community resources.

CEO Pullin remarked, “As South Jersey’s largest health system, we’re looking to address as many of these needs as we can. This helps us to close the disparity gaps in health access and health outcomes.”

The Mobile Grocery Store has regular scheduled stops, building supportive community relationships. More information is available at Virtua's site.

In addition to the grocery store, a Mobile Food Farmacy is slated to begin service, bringing food and nutrition therapy to patients in need. Debra Moran described this effort as eliminating transportation barriers, saying, “We will soon be able to bring a Food Farmacy to them! That’s what it means to meet people where they are.”

Virtua’s mobile health programs include various services, and since its creation in 2017, has aimed to deliver essential health care to local neighborhoods.