No-Cost Farm Stand

I really want to take a few moments to thank all the people who assisted to provide the farmer market in Fluvanna. It was such a great experience, and I ate so well for a week basically free! Such programs encourage community and dignity—food not just for the stomach, but also for the soul.

Lee, Fluvanna Farm Stand Participant

Patient

Fighting hunger here at home

Healthy food is fundamental to good health and the prevention and management of diabetes, hypertension, obesity, and other chronic illnesses. Yet one in 10 children in our region lives in poverty, and thousands more lack regular access to nourishing fruits, vegetables, and meats. Improving diet and exercise are among the most urgent health priorities for the Blue Ridge Health District, according to the most recent Community Health Needs Assessment.

In response, Sentara Martha Jefferson Hospital established its Fresh Farm Stands Initiative in 2021 to improve access to fresh, healthy food. In 2024 alone, our Community Health and Outreach Team hosted14 Free Farm Stands throughout the region, helping more than1,800 children and families access the farm-fresh produce, meat, and cheese.

At-A-Glance

150

families of four served per farm stand

counties served: Albemarle, Fluvanna, Greene, Louisa, Nelson

farm stands annually

100K

of funding needed annually

How we fight hunger

Each free fresh farm stand aims to provide up to two weeks of farm-fresh produce, meat, and cheese for 150 families of four. Registered nurses onsite conduct free health checks, A1C blood sugar tests, and blood pressure screenings, as well as other health information. We source the food from small and mid-sized family farms in our region. Rarely is food left over, and if it is, community partners take it to elderly shut-ins or families they know are in need but may have transportation issues.

We work collaboratively with a grassroots network in each county to get the word out. For instance, in Louisa and Fluvanna, we work closely with the public school leaders and set-up the farm stands in public school parking lots. In Nelson, Greene, and Albemarle, we work closely with food pantries. Faith-based leaders in each community are also involved.