A remarkable transformation has taken place in the Mount Clare community of Southwest Baltimore, where residents no longer face the challenges of a food desert. Through relentless efforts by local leaders and collaboration with city officials, a new grocery store now stands as a beacon of hope and health for the neighborhood. This achievement highlights the power of community-driven initiatives in addressing critical urban issues.
The journey began two years ago when a major supermarket closed its doors, leaving Mount Clare without access to fresh produce and essential groceries. In response, Bif Browning, president of the Union Square Association, joined forces with Councilwoman Phylicia Porter to seek solutions. Their mission was clear: bring back a grocery store that prioritized healthy options. After encountering numerous obstacles with larger chains, they shifted focus toward smaller operators who shared their vision. Eventually, Collado Holdings emerged as the ideal partner, bringing innovative ideas and a commitment to serving the community.
With financial support from the Casino Local Impact Fund and strategic partnerships involving healthcare providers and pharmacies, an incentive model was crafted to attract Jumbo Fresh Market to Mount Clare Junction. Beyond offering diverse selections of fruits, vegetables, meats, and seafood, this market also emphasizes sustainability and education through programs like cooking classes. To ensure accessibility, community leaders introduced a fleet of vans providing transportation for shoppers. This initiative exemplifies how proactive leadership can uplift underserved areas by fostering equitable access to nutritious food choices.
Inspired by their success, Browning and Porter aim to replicate this model across other neighborhoods grappling with similar challenges. By reimagining traditional grocery store concepts and leveraging existing resources creatively, they envision a future where all communities enjoy equal opportunities for healthy living. Their story underscores the importance of advocacy, perseverance, and collaboration in achieving social justice and improving quality of life for everyone involved.