New Southeast Grocery Moving Toward Fruition

By: Susan Beauchamp

Does Southeast Indianapolis need more options to buy healthy food that are accessible for all residents? A group of residents and other people from a faith-based study circle believe the area has the need and they are acting on their thoughts. This group began meeting in 2008 and developed the idea of a food Co-op or a resident owned grocery store. They believe that the current food purchasing options are limited, sometimes too expensive, and need more access for walkers or others who rely on public transportation. Their idea has progressed into Pleasant Run Grocery: a community owned grocery store. Their mission statement is: Pleasant Run Grocery is a member owned, community based grocery store dedicated to serving the need of local producers and consumers by providing goods and services, education and reasonably priced healthy foods.

Currently the Pleasant Run Grocery Committee is developing a business plan to obtain funding. They are also looking for a central location, which is well lighted, has enough parking and is on public transportation routes. The Co-op would like to offer the opportunity for residents to buy bulk food, which can be less expensive. Additionally, they would like to offer food education and possible cooking lessons for residents to promote healthy food options with basic ingredients, rather than more expensive processed food. With fresh produce in season, the Grocery hopes to attract others from downtown and around the city to also shop in this neighborhood.

Part of the original funding for Pleasant Run Grocery would come from memberships, although anyone will be able to shop in the store. Membership would give partial ownership. Food stamps will also be accepted. For more information about Pleasant Run Grocery, contact Jerry Keyes at seorganizer@gmail.com.

The Farmers Market at Southeast Community Services Center provides an additional option for food shopping in the area. Meeting on Saturdays, July 4, August 1, Sept. 5, and October 3, it is from 9 AM to noon, at 901 Shelby Street. Start up money was obtained by an IMAGINE grant through INRC. The SECS summer program youth are assisting with the market by helping set up and making items for sale. Look for fresh produce, crafts, herbs & plants, jewelry, and photography. It is free to look around. Vendors are welcome at $10 per space. For information, contact Terri Garcia at 283-8748 or Kate Voss at 607-3235.

Please take time to fill out the survey about food shopping that was enclosed in the last issue of the South East Square News, or fill one out at SEND, to assist in the planning for the Pleasant Run Grocery. The Southeast Learning Partnership, SELP, which documents and collects data for the Southeast Neighborhoods, administers this survey. The SELP meets on the 2^nd Monday of each month at SECS at 901 Shelby St. at 5 PM. Anyone who has an interest in SE Indy is welcome to attend. Childcare and dinner are provided. For more information, contact Chairperson Marti LaMar at selp_chair@yahoo.com.