ATLANTA – State Representative Kim Schofield (D-Atlanta) recently joined MARTA and Retaaza on July 17th to celebrate the official launch of the MARTA Fresh Markets at the College Park Station. This partnership represents a step toward addressing food insecurity by providing convenient access to affordable, high-quality, locally sourced Georgia Grown produce.
“This isn’t just about fruits and vegetables,” said Rep. Schofield. “It’s about building a stronger connection between our farms, local growers and our communities and using food as medicine to combat obesity, diabetes, hypertension and heart disease.”
The Fresh Market operates from 3 p.m. to 6 p.m. and offers a 50 percent discount for customers using SNAP/EBT benefits—aiming to make healthy food accessible for working families and individuals in transit-accessible communities.
As a long-time advocate for food as medicine, Rep. Schofield has drafted legislation to formally integrate this evidence-based approach into Georgia’s health policy.
“I am calling on my colleagues in the Georgia General Assembly to support this effort to treat food as a core part of healthcare,” stated Rep. Schofield.
The establishment of Fresh Markets in MARTA stations is intended to improve access to fresh food in underserved areas and promote public health.
“I hope to see a future where medical professionals write prescriptions for produce as part of a holistic care plan,” added Rep. Schofield.
Rep. Schofield extended her appreciation to Retaaza and MARTA for their commitment to health equity and their investment in the College Park community, stating, “Together, we’re creating healthy food access to wellness one market at a time.”
*Editor’s note: a photo is included.
Representative Kim Schofield represents the citizens of District 63, which includes a portion of Fulton County. She was first elected to the House of Representatives in 2017 and currently serves as Secretary of the Urban Affairs Committee. She also serves on the Creative Arts & Entertainment, Health, Industry and Labor and Small Business Development committees.
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