Making an impact on wheels: The Greater Washington Region AHA works with Lyft to combat food deserts

WASHINGTON DC- The Greater Washington Region American Heart Association is excited to announce its new collaboration with Lyft and DC Greens to support the Lyft Grocery Access Program.

A huge barrier to food access is being able to get to places with healthy food options. This program will help solve this issue. The program started on April 1st and provides 50 seniors with $1.50 Lyft shared rides to participating grocery and market partners in DC’s Wards 7 and 8 at participating grocery stores and the lobby market at Martha’s Table. The American Heart Association is helping to fund the addition of the 50 seniors to the program implemented by Lyft and the local non-profits, Martha’s Table and DC Greens.

“We are proud to be a part of the Grocery Access pilot to support our community. The lack of availability of healthy food is a barrier that impacts health and well-being for adults and children. When food is readily available, one has a higher chance to develop better eating habits and achieve better overall health. Together, we are a relentless force for a healthier DC so that everyone can access healthy food,” said Soula Antoniou, Executive Director, Greater Washington Region American Heart Association.

The Lyft Grocery Access program is a six-month pilot initiative with DC’s Martha’s Table. It launched in January 2019 to provide families shared rides to and/or from participating grocery stores and the lobby of Martha’s table. To date, the Lyft Grocery Access Program has cut the average time it takes families to get to a grocery store in half. Together, we are working towards better food access in DC!

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