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 After serving the community for nearly four years, the Y’s Veggie Van – A Mobile Market Place continues to better the lives of Tampa Bay area residents. Through the Veggie Van, the Tampa Y distributes fresh fruits and vegetables into targeted communities, which are labeled food deserts, across Hillsborough and East Pasco counties. A food desert is defined as an urban neighborhood without ready access to fresh, healthy and affordable food.   Sulphur Springs resident, Danielle James, says the ability to purchase an entire bag of fresh produce for just $1 saved her family’s Thanksgiving this past year. "My family and I were real low on funds and I just really couldn't afford groceries,” shares Danielle. “I saw the Veggie Van had collard greens, onions, bell peppers and sweet potatoes - all the things you need to make the whole meal. It helped me tremendously and it meant so much because we couldn't afford it.”   Danielle is just one of nearly 18,500 people impacted by the Veggie Van in 2018. “This is the best thing that they created for us. It really is! Thank you,” testifies Danielle.   In addition to Sulphur Springs, the Y’s Veggie Van distributes produce in the communities of Tampa Heights, Plant City, Dover, Wimauma and Lacoochee. Each of these locations has a demonstrated need for nutritional wellness. The Veggie Van is possible thanks to Publix Charities and The Saunders Foundation. To learn more, click here.   
  Pictured above: Danielle James says the Y’s Veggie Van came into her life just when she needed it the most.