In an effort to increase access to healthier food choices in its neighborhood, Montefiore Health System Office of Community & Population Health, in collaboration with Shop Healthy NYC , and Center For Disease Control and Prevention’s Bronx REACH CHAMPS Initiative created The Healthy Store Initiative to help combat diet-related chronic disease, and promote health and well-being. On April 23rd, two Bronx markets, Martes Food Center, 124 E 176Th St. and Aqui Me Quedo, 1052 Gerard Avenue, will receive the Bronx CAN Health Initiative proclamation award. Both markets are participating in the program to provide healthy and affordable food options for community residents who need to manage restrictive diets as the result of diabetes, hypertension and/or obesity.

The Office of the Bronx Borough President Ruben Diaz Jr., will present the awards during the “Health Day” event at the Church of God of Prophecy, 85 E. 165th Street, at 11 a.m. this Saturday.

“Montefiore is proud of its association with both Martes Food Center and Aqui Me Quedo, “ said Amanda Parsons, M.D., vice president, Population and Community Health, Montefiore. “ It is critical that we encourage local businesses to play a role in helping Bronx residents build healthier and more active communities. Improving access to healthy foods and exercise options on a neighborhood level will help us tackle the rate of chronic disease and improve the overall health of the borough.” 

Stores participating in The Healthy Store Initiative agree to follow specific criteria to ensure and encourage the sale of healthy food and beverage choices.  These criteria includes placing fruit and vegetable options by the cash registers; displaying  low calorie drinks and water at eye-level; offering healthy sandwich options; carrying low-sodium and no-sugar added canned goods; stocking foods that meet NYC Healthy Snack Standards; and, removing advertisements for tobacco and alcoholic products from the entrance.

For more information about Montefiore’s Healthy Store Initiative contact office of Population and Community Health at 718-920-6058 or communityhealth@montefiore.org