Mobile Markets Launch in Columbia to Address Food Insecurity Issues

Mobile Markets Coming to Columbia to Tackle Food Insecurity

Columbia, S.C. — Big changes are rolling into Columbia as the city ramps up efforts to tackle food insecurity head-on! The City Council has approved a new contract worth $143,000 with Tom’s Creek Family Farms, ensuring that residents in neighborhoods without a grocery store can enjoy the benefits of fresh produce through the city’s Food Insecurity Solutions Program.

Bringing the Market to the People

Launched in March, this innovative initiative is designed to reach areas termed as food deserts, where locals struggle to find fresh food options without having to travel far. Denise Wellman, president of the Cottontown Neighborhood Association, expressed her community’s concerns about the grocery situation, pointing out that, while there are great stores in the vicinity, they aren’t exactly within walking distance for many residents.

“The neighbors of all neighborhoods close by are concerned that we don’t have one [a grocery store] close by. So it is a bit of a food desert,” Wellman said. “We’ve got a great grocery store in the Vista and one down in Five Points, but those are a little far away.”

Identifying the Problem

A report from Columbia’s Food Equity Subcommittee indicated that many low-income residents live more than half a mile away from the nearest grocery store. For those without reliable transportation, that distance feels even longer and more daunting. The mobile markets aim to change that by delivering fresh produce straight from the farm to these underserved areas of the community.

Ayesha Driggers, the director of Columbia’s Office of Business Opportunities, emphasizes the importance of accessibility in the fight against food insecurity. “We’re bringing the market to the community. So one of the big issues with food insecurities is the lack of transportation,” Driggers stated.

Program Progress and Participation

Since its inception, the mobile markets have thrived at three different locations, serving around 25 customers each day and generating an average of $620 in sales daily. Enthusiastic residents have embraced this opportunity to get fresh food closer to home! A fourth stop was added at the COMET Central bus station on Sumter Street and has been welcomed by the community. This new stop will also be included in the extended contract starting next January.

A Multi-Pronged Approach

While the mobile markets are a fantastic step forward, Driggers pointed out that this is just part of the solution to combat food deserts in Columbia. “I think we recognize that it takes a multi-prong approach. There’s not a one-size-fits-all,” she said, adding that, in addition to the mobile market, the city has initiated a Grocery Assistance Program (GAP) in partnership with Instacart to provide grocery delivery services to those in need.

Looking Ahead

Even as residents like Wellman appreciate the mobile markets, they still hold out hope for a permanent grocery store to open in their area. With the holidays approaching, the absence of a nearby grocery store can be particularly challenging.

“To go far away, especially if the grocery store doesn’t have adequate parking, can make it really difficult to get in and out quickly for the things that you do need,” Wellman expressed, highlighting a struggle many families face during the busy holiday season.

Plans for the Future

The fresh contract with Tom’s Creek Farm is set to start in January and last until 2026. Although the mobile market will be on hiatus during the holiday season, operations will resume in January with a weekly schedule yet to be announced. The city is more committed than ever to making sure everyone has access to healthy food options, one market at a time!