Very soon fresh produce will be as close as…your community hospital!

(Willingboro) -- On Thursday, June 18 Lourdes Medical Center of Burlington County invites the public to the county's newest weekly farmers market.

The market will be held from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. every Thursday through the fall months in the hospital's Cafeteria. Because the market is located indoors, weather won't be a factor. The market, held in cooperation with Hunters' Farm, accepts Senior and WIC produce vouchers in addition to cash.

"The goal of the Farmers Market is to provide staff and visitors the opportunity to purchase fresh, affordable produce," said Sister Marge Sullivan, vice president of mission services. "Because produce should be a staple in every person's diet, this new venture in line with our mission to be a healing presence in the communities we serve."

Promoting good nutrition is an educational priority for the hospital, according to Sister Marge. Several years ago, the hospital started a Senior Dining Program whereby area seniors, for a nominal fee, can dine at a discount in the hospital cafeteria. "Because many seniors often live alone, it is hard for them to prepare good nutritious meals," she explained. "This program offers them a place where they can dine as well as interact with others."

During the Farmers Market kick-off event, the hospital will offer free health screenings, "go green" shopping bags to the first 100 customers and free recipes on creative ways to prepare fresh produce. Hospital visitors as well as the public are welcome to attend. Visitors should enter through the main entrance. Staff and special signage will guide visitors to the cafeteria area.

With the addition of this market, the Lourdes Health System now offers farmers markets on both of its campuses. Since 2007, Our Lady of Lourdes Medical Center in Camden has partnered with the Camden Area Health Education Center (AHEC) in offering an urban farmers market. Our Lady of Lourdes Farmers Market is held every Wednesday from 2 – 6 p.m. through early November