Note from the Commissioner: Expanding Baltimarket Healthy Stores Program
Friday Jul 21st, 2017
This week, I had the opportunity to keynote the Women’s Wealth and Health Equity Summit hosted by Dr. Maya Rockeymoore Cummings and Global Policy Solutions. It was inspiring to be surrounded by so many women and men who are dedicated to improving the health and well-being of others across the country. Policy alone is not enough to make significant change—we also need action, resources, and dedication to service.
I spoke about how choice is predicated on privilege and power. As an emergency physician, I see patients who come to me with complications of chronic diseases like heart disease, diabetes, and hypertension. I can counsel them on the importance of making healthy food choices, but we also must make these options available—something that is difficult for the one in four Baltimoreans who lack access to healthy food. This is an issue of health and justice.
That’s why we were so thrilled to announce on Tuesday a new $150,000 grant from the Community Health Resources Commission to expand the Baltimarket Healthy Stores program, which encourages and supports local stores to provide healthy options for residents living in food deserts. The support, announced at Shop & Go on Washington Boulevard, means that we will have 40 new corner stores that will carry fruits, vegetables, and other health options—as well as 40 youth trained as nutrition ambassadors in the community.
As we start a fun weekend at Artscape, it is important to remember to take precautions in the expected extreme heat. I declared the second Code Red Heat Alert of the season, which extends through the weekend. To protect against hyperthermia and dehydration, take cooling breaks and stay hydrated. Check in with neighbors, especially those most vulnerable to extreme heat, such as children and the elderly. Remember never to leave your pets outdoors for extended periods of time or in hot cars.
Thank you for your support to improve health and well-being in Baltimore—and please stay cool and healthy!
Sincerely,
Leana S. Wen, M.D., M.Sc.