Columbia Launches Mobile Markets to Combat Food Insecurity in Underserved Communities

Columbia Takes a Big Step to Fight Food Insecurity!

Columbia, S.C. is making waves in the effort to tackle the pressing issue of food insecurity by rolling out some creative solutions to make fresh groceries accessible to everyone! Yes, you heard it right! The City Council approved a hefty contract to keep the momentum going with mobile markets aimed at neighborhoods that are a bit far from grocery stores. The contract, worth $143,000, is with Tom’s Creek Family Farms and ensures that this fantastic program will continue through to 2026!

What’s the Goal?

The whole idea kicked off back in March and is part of the city’s Food Insecurity Solutions Program. It specifically targets those areas known as food deserts, which are neighborhoods where residents struggle to find a nearby grocery store. Denise Wellman, president of the Cottontown Neighborhood Association, highlighted some areas in North Main as particularly affected. She pointed out, “The neighbors of all neighborhoods close by are concerned that we don’t have one close by. So it is a bit of a food desert.” Isn’t that a mouthful? But she’s right! Those who live in those areas are often left to travel quite a distance to snag a few groceries, and that can be a real hassle.

Understanding Food Deserts

According to a report from Columbia’s Food Equity Subcommittee in 2020, many low-income residents find themselves over half a mile away from a grocery store. For a lot of folks, transportation can be a major hurdle, making it a daunting task to pick up fresh foods. That’s where our shiny new mobile markets come in! Ayesha Driggers, director of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities, couldn’t have said it better: “We’re bringing the market to the community!”

How Are They Doing So Far?

Since the official launch, these mobile markets have been serving their community and have set up shop at three different locations. They’ve been buzzing with energy, interacting with about 25 customers daily and raking in around $620 in daily sales. A new stop has even been added at the COMET Central bus station, making it even more convenient for residents to pop by and grab some fresh groceries!

But Is It Enough?

As great as this program may be, officials are quick to point out that the mobile markets are just one piece of the puzzle. Driggers mentioned that a multi-pronged approach is needed to truly tackle food deserts. The city also has a Grocery Assistance Program in partnership with Instacart to help cover delivery services for groceries, which is a real game changer for community members.

What Do Residents Think?

Wellman expressed her appreciation for the fresh produce that the mobile markets provide but still has her fingers crossed for a full-time grocery store in her community. She shared, “We’re going into the holiday season, and boy, when you go into your pantry while cooking and find you don’t have what you need, it’s a real uphill battle to get to stores that are so far away.” Sounds like a headache, doesn’t it?

What’s Next for the Mobile Markets?

Even with the holiday season around the corner, residents won’t be left high and dry! The mobile market will take a little break but will be back in action come January. So, make sure to keep an eye out for their schedule! This effort shows that Columbia is dedicated to bridging the gap and ensuring that all its residents can enjoy fresh, healthy food without the struggle. Go Columbia!