Partnership Highlight: Increasing Seniors’ Access to Fresh and Healthy Food with Project GROWS

Through our partnership with Project GROWS, the Mobile Market brings fresh fruits and vegetables directly to senior residents of Gypsy Hill House, removing transportation and cost barriers that often limit access to healthy food options.

Recent survey results showed:

• 88% of residents reported the Mobile Market made it easier to access fresh fruits and vegetables.

• 88% reported eating more fruits and vegetables as a result of the program.

• 63% tried a new fruit or vegetable this year, expanding their exposure to healthy food choices.

• 88% reported feeling more connected to their community when shopping at the Market.
  

Importantly, 88% of surveyed residents utilize food incentive programs, including Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) and the Senior Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program (SFMNP) at the market. This demonstrates the program’s reach among seniors and its role in stretching limited food budgets.

Here is what our Resident Service Coordinator, Edith, shared about the program:

“Project Grows is a great resource because it brings the residents out of their apartments for socialization as well as top-quality fresh fruits and vegetables literally at their back door.  The mobile farmer’s market is a terrific way to encourage healthy eating at a budget-friendly price.”

Here is what resident Mona shared about her experience with the program:

“I enjoy the friendly staff at the mobile market as well as their weekly recipes and fresh samples.”

This partnership over the last five years has done more than provide produce; it has strengthened food security, supported healthier eating habits, and fostered community connection. By bringing fresh food directly to residents, we are investing in the long-term well-being of seniors.

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Partnership Highlight: STEM Programming with Loudoun County Public Library

For the past 2 years at Ashburn Chase Apartments, our Out-of-School Time partnership with Loudoun County Public Library has provided monthly Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) programming for K–8th grade residents.  Separated by two age groups, the program delivers hands-on, engaging STEM activities that strengthen foundational skills and support youth learning.

Recent survey results showed:

• 100% of youth participants reported positive satisfaction with the STEM program, with 80% stating they “love” the experience.

• 100% of youth participants reported increased knowledge in STEM subjects, with more than half indicating a significant increase.

Here is what our Resident Service Coordinator, Lucia, shared about the program:

“Our STEM program at Ashburn Chase, in partnership with Loudoun County Public Library, is inspiring young minds to think creatively, solve problems, and believe in their potential. As Resident Services Coordinator, we’re seeing our children grow more confident every week, proof that access to learning opportunities today builds brighter futures for our community tomorrow.”

Here is what one parent, Bibi, shared about her experience with the program:

“As a parent at Ashburn Chase, I’ve watched my children grow more confident and curious through the STEM program, and I enjoy joining the kids and learning something new alongside them as an immigrant family. This school program is opening my kids minds and giving our me hope they are learning good skills for our better future.”

We are grateful for this ongoing partnership and the enriching educational experiences it brings to our residents.