Hoyer Announces Grant Funding for LifeStyles of Maryland, Inc.
On Oct. 2, Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) announced that a $600,000 grant was awarded to LifeStyles of Maryland, Inc. in La Plata to support their new “Mobile Markets of Southern Maryland” program. The grant funds will be specifically targeted to a program that connects low-income families and residents with nutrient-rich food sources and will create 25 new jobs in Southern Maryland.
“I’m pleased to announce that LifeStyles of Maryland has received grant funding to improve access to healthier food choices for low-income families and individuals in Southern Maryland,” stated Congressman Hoyer. “From housing those at-risk of homelessness to providing job-seekers with skills training, LifeStyles has developed several programs to assist the most vulnerable and make a significant difference in our community. By delivering fresh produce to residents, this mobile unit will not only encourage healthier lifestyles and reduce the incidence of diseases caused by poor diets, but it will create 25 jobs for low-income residents and benefit local farmers.”
“I am very excited to provide fresh produce and other items, essentially a grocery store on wheels, to what would be considered food deserts in Southern Maryland,” said Sandy Washington, Executive Director of LifeStyles of Maryland, Inc. “The mobile market concept is indeed a business venture. While the funding gets us started, this is a project that must be sustained through strategic partnering, as well as through business development. The mobile markets will also introduce a new genre of food shopping to Southern Maryland.”
LifeStyles of Maryland, Inc. is a non-profit organization whose goal is to provide affordable, accessible services, activities, and goods to support and encourage individuals, families, and community development in Southern Maryland. Since its inception in 1998, LifeStyles has been dedicated to addressing health issues, human services, and economic growth in the community.
Hoyer Announces Staff Change
Congressman Steny H. Hoyer (MD-5) announced on Sept. 29 that Latoya Veal has been hired as Maryland Press Secretary, succeeding Mariel Saez who has been promoted to National Press Secretary.
“I’m pleased to have Latoya joining my staff as Maryland Press Secretary, and I am certain that her experience and sharp intellect will enhance the work of my office as I communicate with Marylanders through the press, social media, and in person,” said Congressman Hoyer. “As a Fifth District resident, Latoya understands well the issues important to families and businesses in our communities.”
Latoya Veal has served as Communications Director for Congresswoman Maxine Waters for the past two years. Prior to joining Congresswoman Waters’ office, Latoya was the Press Secretary for the National Organization for Women. Before moving to Maryland, Latoya was the Public Information Officer for the Mayor of Prichard, Alabama, and worked at the NBC affiliate television station in Mobile, Alabama. Originally from Mississippi, Latoya has been a Fifth District resident for the past several years.