Bodega Initiative

Our Bodega Outreach Initiative encourages grocers located near schools to promote low-fat snacks, 1% milk, and a variety of fruit.

Activities have included:

  • Surveying 511 stores in 2003
  • Reporting survey results to Community Boards, community organizations, local merchant associations, and local nutrition networks
  • Distributing 1,500 informational postcards to 30 grocers/bodegas from 17 community and faith organizations in 2004
  • Hosting community focus groups in 2005 for input on survey results and next steps
  • Designing a “Healthy Bodega” campaign with the Bronx Healthy Hearts School Program to promote the sale of low-fat milk in 2005. The program recruited three bodegas in close proximity to three “Healthy Hearts” schools. Participation continues to grow.

In March 2006, we partnered with the New York City Department of Health on the ‘Mooooove to 1% Milk’ campaign in schools. Bronx Health REACH Coalition has distributed more than 2,500 postcards, 40 T-shirts, and 65 coupons to receive 50¢ off any size container of low-fat milk at participating bodegas.

Contact us to learn more about our bodega program or how you can get involved.