Mayor Scott, Councilwoman Porter, Senator Hayes, Community Leaders Open JumboFresh Supermarket in Mount Clare Junction

BALTIMORE, MD (Friday, October 4, 2024) - Today, the much-anticipated JumboFresh Supermarket was officially opened in Mount Clare Junction. This new store represents a monumental milestone in addressing food access and health disparities in Baltimore City. As a full-service grocery store, it brings fresh, affordable, and nutritious food options to a neighborhood long underserved by traditional retailers, directly supporting the city's commitment to food equity and healthier communities.

A collaborative effort between public and private partners led by Councilwoman Porter, Senator Antonio Hayes, and Bif Browning and made possible in partnership with both Baltimore City and state government, JumboFresh exemplifies what's possible when community voices, local government, and private businesses work together. This initiative tackles the root causes of food insecurity and chronic health issues that disproportionately affect residents in underserved areas. Serving a historically disinvested-in neighborhood that has gone without a full-service grocery since a recent store closure, the opening of JumboFresh is more than just a new supermarket; it is a critical step toward reshaping food policy in Baltimore City.

"Food insecurity and the accessibility of healthy food is a challenge that plagues far too many of our neighborhoods and weighs heavily on far too many of our residents," said Mayor Brandon M. Scott. "Today's grand-opening of a community-centered supermarket at JumboFresh is a symbol of our collective efforts to tackle that decades-long problem. Our administration has always been committed to ensuring every neighborhood has access to high-quality food options - and we've pursued efforts like this one to deliver on that commitment. This supermarket is a reflection of the partnership that makes progress possible, and I'm confident that partnership will continue to ensure this store remains successful for years to come."

Councilwoman Phylicia Porter, who has been a steadfast advocate for food justice working diligently to change the narrative around food access in Baltimore, was a crucial leader in the effort to stand-up this project. By centering the needs of the community and understanding the deep-rooted impact of food deserts, Porter is championing a new vision for food policy in Baltimore.

"Our focus is on creating sustainable, healthy food environments for everyone, not just temporary solutions," said Councilwoman Phylicia Porter. "JumboFresh represents the power of listening to our communities, creating partnerships that matter, and pushing for lasting change in how we address health disparities. Access to fresh, nutritious food is a human right, and through initiatives like JumboFresh, we are investing in the long-term health of our city."

This effort is the result of a unique public-private partnership that prioritizes the well-being of Baltimore's residents. Local community groups were instrumental in shaping the vision for the supermarket, ensuring that the new store aligns with the actual needs of the Mount Clare neighborhood.

JumboFresh's focus on fresh produce, whole grains, and nutritious food items is intended to combat health disparities such as obesity, hypertension, and diabetes, which have been disproportionately high in underserved communities. This store's presence provides residents with a local, accessible resource for healthy choices, reducing the reliance on fast food or processed options that contribute to poor health outcomes.

The opening of JumboFresh Supermarket marks a critical shift in Baltimore's food policy, and it is part of a larger vision set by the city's leadership. Mayor Scott Administration and Councilwoman Porter's leadership remains committed to ensuring that every neighborhood, from Mount Clare Junction to Cherry Hill, has access to the resources necessary for long, healthy lives.

As the store opens its doors, the community is already celebrating a win for food access, economic growth, and health. The presence of JumboFresh in Mount Clare Junction will not only improve residents' quality of life but also serve as a model for future investments in food security across Southwest Baltimore and the entire city.

About JumboFresh
JumboFresh Supermarket is a community-driven grocery store that aims to provide affordable, nutritious, and fresh food to underserved neighborhoods. Its focus on health and well-being aligns with Baltimore City's commitment to reducing food deserts and promoting equitable access to essential resources.

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