August 20, 2009

Veggie Bus starts rolling in Richmond area

RICHMOND—Move over, ice cream man! A traveling farmers’ market based in the Richmond area is attracting kids and adults alike.

With the help of friends and family, Farm to Family founder Mark Lilly converted a 1987 International school bus into a mobile produce delivery hub.

His goal is to provide high-quality service and products to various communities.

Lilly’s focus is on urban areas that have little access to farm-fresh products. “Part of this is to build a bridge between small farmers and consumers, or anybody who wants to promote small farms. It’s a way to help stimulate the economy, help farmers grow, and help provide local foods to areas that might not have access,” he explained.

While living in New York City’s Harlem neighborhood, Lilly experienced first hand a lack of access to fresh produce.

Lilly, who holds a degree in disaster science and emergency management from the University of Richmond, helped establish community gardens in Harlem to teach children how to grow healthy, fresh foods. “This really can make a difference and provide an association with what they are growing to build self-confidence and self-gratification while also providing them with a useful skill,” he said.

While Lilly’s family operates an organic farm, he said the plan is not to grow everything himself. “I wouldn’t classify myself as a farmer; I’m a novice gardener at best. While I provide some produce, I hope to build strong relationships with small farms throughout the area to grow produce for me,” he said. “That way I know where it is coming from and that it is safe.”

Providing healthy food options is also a goal of the Veggie Bus. “People in low-income areas choose survival over health; they choose whatever is cheaper. This project would provide more access to fresh foods without the added expense of traveling.” Lilly also hopes to become qualified to accept food stamps.

The Veggie Bus began rolling in June and has garnered support from church groups, hospitals, private schools and office complexes. Lilly said his biggest challenge is finding farmers who can provide produce at a low cost.

Still, he is excited to see just how far his wheels will take him. “I love what I’m doing.”
Contact Lilly at 540-872-6528 or Veronica Rohrmoser, VFBF video intern, at 804-290-1145.