WEST CHESTER, Pa. -- ShopRite of West Chester and West Chester University of Pennsylvania are joining together on an innovative partnership to train the next generation of dietitians.
Sponsored by a grant from the Delaware-based Produce For Better Health Foundation, the Store Tour Training Grant Program will allow students to work with a ShopRite dietitian to lead grocery store tours for other West Chester students and community members emphasizing the health benefits of all fruits and vegetables, including fresh, canned and frozen.
“We are very excited to begin this partnership with West Chester University nutrition students and the Produce for Better Health Foundation,” says Tammy Miller-Sheeler, HR Manager for KTM Supermarkets Inc. ShopRites in West Chester and Hatfield, PA. “As a family and business, we are committed to serving our community and providing opportunities for our customers to lead more healthful lives. This produce and nutrition based grant is an excellent addition to that effort.”
Jena Wood, retail dietitian for the ShopRite of West Chester, will train the students and oversee the tours. Wood received her Bachelor of Science in Nutrition from West Chester University and is currently enrolled in their Masters of Science in Community Nutrition program. While the PBH grant program is providing tours for pre-selected groups, if customers are interested in a grocery store tour they are encouraged to contact Wood at the store for a complimentary tour or consultation.
ShopRite’s retail dietitian program provides free nutrition services to the store’s local community. The services include individual consultations, store tours, community speaking events, wellness programs, cooking classes and much more.