Be Healthy Berrien has received a $45,000 grant from the American Electric Power Foundation to help improve access to fresh fruits and vegetables in Benton Harbor.

Be Healthy Berrien Director Dawn Marie Smith tells us the organization promotes healthy lifestyles in the community, often focusing on how people eat. It’ll use its AEP grant in two ways. First, Smith says funds will be used to support the Benton Harbor Farmers Market.

“Really, what we’re trying to do is prop up that food system in Benton Harbor and the farmers market is one way to do that.,” Smith said.

Smith says the ultimate goal is for the city of Benton Harbor to take over the market, but for now it remains under the management of the Berrien County Health Department. The AEP grant will help to continue the program.

Smith says the grant will also be used to continue the Healthy Corner Store Initiative, which works with small convenience stores.

“As busy as life is, it’s really easy to grab and go unhealthy food items or drinks. And our role or our vision is that the more that we can offer fresh fruits and vegetables in these types of stores, we’re nudging community members to hopefully make some healthier choices.”

Smith says with there not being any full-service grocery stores in Benton Harbor, it’s those small, mom and pop-owned corner stores that serve the community. Through the Healthy Corner Store Initiative, Be Healthy Berrien provides them with the equipment and connections needed to stock fresh fruits and vegetables.

Any stores interested in taking part should contact Be Healthy Berrien.