THE FOLLOWING IS A CARLE HEALTH RELEASE
Contributions of fresh, shelf-stable foods invited for Mobile Market Share
DANVILLE, Ill. – Access to low-cost fresh produce in Vermilion County is growing through the Mobile Market thanks to approval by the federal government for use of SNAP (Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program) benefits by qualifying low-income individuals.
In addition, the mobile market is launching Mobile Market Food Share in Vermilion County. Gardeners or growers who find they have an abundance of fruits or vegetables this year are invited to make donations to the Mobile Market, created to reduce healthcare disparities at stops throughout Vermilion County. There will be no charge to shoppers for food items donated to the Mobile Market Food Share.
“We are thrilled to have both SNAP and Mobile Market Food Share help us fulfill our mission to support residents in making fresh, healthy food choices in communities with limited or no grocery options as a means of improving health outcomes,” said Jonathan Woods, executive director, Carle Health Community Health Initiatives.
Launched in 2025 through the Vermilion County Community Health Collaborative and led by Carle Health, the inspiring initiative addresses food insecurity and improves community well-being, one stop at a time. Foods – fresh, frozen and chilled – are sold at a low cost in areas with few or no grocery options and most stops last 1.5 to 2 hours. Grant funding enables the Carle Health Mobile Market to purchase food at wholesale prices and pass the savings directly to shoppers.
The mobile market is made possible by the Vermilion County Community Health Collaborative led by Carle Health Community Health Initiatives and funded by a grant through the Illinois Department of Healthcare and Family Services.
Those interested in donating to the Mobile Market Food Share should send an email to vermilionmobilemarket@carle.com or call (217) 714-1926.
Food or produce pickup is at the discretion of the market coordinator or designated staff and depends on staff availability, time and transportation considerations.
Donors may request documentation acknowledging their contribution and receive a receipt or other form of donation verification for donations dropped off or picked up. All donations are weighed and tracked in total pounds distributed.
