What if we can position food equity as an opportunity to revitalize under-resourced Communities?
RG Foods is pioneering a network of locally owned stores called the Grocery Box. This new micro grocery concept provides a low-cost entry, environmentally friendly, and a nimble solution to re-populate neighborhoods with fresh food stores.
This project is distinctive due to its integrated strategy which addresses barriers across the local food system. It is a phased approach aimed at providing economic development for underserved populations while ensuring equitable access to health food thereby improving health disparities. In other words, it’s replicable. It provides a social entrepreneurial opportunity for residents to own and operate their own neighborhood stores.
Our first pilot installation of the Grocery Box will be in partnership at the Tulsa Dream Center North campus and broke ground June 17, 2024.
This small scale store will be a full service grocery store offering locally sourced produce, meat, diary, frozen, grab and go, and staple dry goods. it will accept SNAP, debit/credit, cash, Double Up Oklahoma, Osage SNFMP and WIC. It will also provide nutrition education, pop up farmers markets, and other programing through a variety of partner organizations including American Heart Association.
PARTNER ORGANIZATIONS
Fresh Food Academy @ The Grocery Box
We have also started a complimentary program called the Fresh Food Academy, which assists youth and residents in becoming active partners in their nutritious food choices and health outcomes. Participants in this year-long internship program gain critical life skills while increasing their knowledge of business, the food supply chain, agriculture, nutrition, food preparation, and community health through hands-on learning and work training that allows them to take ownership of their health and building pathways for careers in the local food system.