Food access remains a challenge in many communities, particularly for older adults and residents living in areas with limited grocery options. A new initiative in Prince George’s County seeks to address both challenges through a free grocery store located inside a public library.
In a recent WTOP article, Prince George’s County has launched an innovative new approach to addressing food insecurity by opening a free grocery store inside the Fairmount Heights Branch Library. The initiative, known as the Fairmount Five Market, is the result of a partnership between the county and Goodr, a nonprofit-focused company that operates similar food access programs nationwide. The market is located in Fairmount Heights, a community often identified as a food desert where access to full-service grocery stores can be limited. The program is intended to help residents, particularly older adults and those on fixed incomes, access healthy food closer to home.
The Fairmount Five Market provides eligible residents with free access to fresh produce, dairy products, meat, juices, and other grocery staples in a setting designed to resemble a traditional grocery shopping experience. The program allows residents to select the items that best meet their household needs, providing flexibility while helping families stretch their food budgets.
From the WTOP article:
So many of our seniors were suffering in silence, not able to afford grocery store prices, but maybe they made a little bit too much to qualify for food programs. Having a program like this that allows them to come and shop with dignity, it really is going to make a big difference here, said Prince George’s County Council member Shayla Adams-Stafford.
According to the article, more than 200 households have already been accepted into the program, and demand has been strong enough to generate a waiting list. Participants receive scheduled shopping opportunities and can fill reusable grocery bags with the foods their families need.
The market is supported through county grant funding that will help keep shelves stocked throughout the year.
