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The Mayor’s Wellness initiative to advance a healthier lifestyle for members of the community is picking up steam.

Having launched this summer, a committee comprised of residents and health professionals have joined forces with existing programs and organizations to further their mission.

Among them is the NJ Healthy Corner Store Initiative, done in partnership with EZ-Ride, The Food Trust, NJ Partnership for Healthy Kids, and Hackensack Meridian-Health.

To date, the AP Deli on Atkins Avenue, La Tapatia on Main Street, Prime Convenience Store on Asbury Avenue, Sheffield’s Market on Bangs Avenue, Home Drug Store on Main Street, and Dark City Grill on Asbury Avenue have signed on to move away from the common source of junk food and soda model to venues that offer healthier food options.

From 10:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Wednesday Home Drug Store, located at 814 Main St, will offer free healthy snack samples, health screenings, a basket raffle, and some nutrition based activities, according to program coordinator Lisa Lee of Ez Ride.

“Many communities do not have large grocery stores within easy walking distance for residents,” Lee has said. “The local corner store may serve as a primary destination for food shopping.”

And, extending on the exercise component of their initiatives, the Mayor’s Wellness group has partnered with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Monmouth County to offer a free Aqua Zumba class.

Previously the Mayor’s Wellness has offered CPR training, yoga in the park, and participated in the American Heart Association Walk along the Asbury Park Boardwalk and the Complete Streets Coalition Community Bike Rides.

The Aqua Zumba class will run from 11 a.m. to noon Saturday at the local Boys & Girls Club, located at 1201 Monroe Ave.

The low-impact class is open to those of all ages, abilities and experience, and will be led by a certified instructor. Set against a backdrop of music, the water resistance class is aimed at increasing strength and flexibility.

Participants should bring a towel and drinking water. To register, email wellness@cityofasburypark.com or call 201-939-4242 x 123 by Friday. For more information about the Mayor’s Wellness Committee, click here.

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