Virtual supermarket in library

http://wjz.com/seenon/Virtual.supermarket.baltimore.2.1569512.html

ReportingMary Bubala BALTIMORE (WJZ) ―
A unique program is using a high-tech method to make sure Baltimore City families have healthy food at home.
Mary Bubala reports it's a virtual supermarket that's filling a major void.
Terri Summerhill, 74, lives in a neighborhood city officials call a "food desert." There's no supermarket within walking distance for residents to find healthy, inexpensive food.
But the Enoch Pratt Free Library has become a lifeline. Inside the Orleans Street Library branch, Summerhill is grocery shopping.
It's called the Virtual Supermarket Project. It's a partnership between the Baltimore City Health Department and the Enoch Pratt Free Library.
Residents like Terri can come in and order groceries online and pay for them, and then pick them up at the same location the very next day.
"You are thinking, groceries at your library, I thought it was books and DVDs and things like that," said Dr. Carla Hayden, CEO of Enoch Pratt Free Library.
Hayden says the program is a first in the nation and access to healthy food is vital.
Washington Village is one of two locations where the Virtual Supermarket is set up. Washington Village has the sixth highest mortality rate linked to diet, including heart disease, stroke and diabetes.
"Residents must choose between shopping at small corner stores that lack fresh produce or paying a premium for a ride outside of their neighborhood and we know this is not a fair choice," said Interim Health Commissioner, Olivia Farrow.
So finally there is choice.
Santoni's in Southeast Baltimore stepped up to the plate, when other grocery chains would not, to make sure good food is available to all.
"Right now we have a fleet of three vehicles, drivers and personal shoppers who do nothing except receive phone orders from seniors who are on fixed income," said Rob Santoni, Santoni's.Now those seniors and others can order online at the library and live healthier lives.
"Today I ordered fruit. I got apples, peaches, pork chops and chicken," said Summerhill.
The project is funded by a $60,000 grant. It plans to expand to other libraries across the city in zones without grocery stores.