Construction of Non-Profit Grocery Store Begins in Lafayette

The construction of a non-profit grocery store, Makin’ Groceries Store, is officially underway in Lafayette, Louisiana. This new venture, a collaboration between the Second Harvest Food Bank and United Way of Acadiana, aims to tackle the persistent issue of food deserts in Lafayette’s Northside. The store, located at 215 East Pinhook Rd., is set to open later this year and will provide local residents with access to nutritious and affordable food.

Addressing the Need for Healthy, Affordable Food
The initiative to create Makin’ Groceries Store is in direct response to the growing need for healthy food options in areas suffering from poverty and limited access to grocery stores. According to Paul Scelfo, Chief Regional Officer at Second Harvest Food Bank, “Access to healthy, affordable food is a fundamental right, yet many face barriers stemming from poverty, food deserts, and limited nutrition education.” This project aims to dismantle these barriers and provide the Northside community with a reliable source of nutritious food, support, and educational resources. This effort echoes the biblical teaching in Proverbs 22:9, which states, “The generous will themselves be blessed, for they share their food with the poor.”

A Community-Oriented Solution
Makin’ Groceries Store will build upon the success of the Makin’ Groceries Mobile Market, a grocery store on wheels that has already delivered fresh food and health services to underserved neighborhoods. This innovative solution is a testament to the power of collaboration, with United Way of Acadiana providing critical funding through the Lafayette Initiative for Food Equity. By addressing the community’s needs head-on, this store will become a hub for nourishment, empowerment, and change. As 1 John 3:17 reminds us, “If anyone has material possessions and sees a brother or sister in need but has no pity on them, how can the love of God be in that person?”

A Prayer for the Community
Heavenly Father,
We thank You for the blessings of collaboration and community that have brought this project to life. We pray that Makin’ Groceries Store will be a place of nourishment, not only for the body but for the soul. May it be a beacon of hope and a tangible demonstration of Your love in action. We ask for Your guidance and protection for all those involved in its construction and future success. Please bless the Northside community with health, unity, and prosperity.
In Jesus’ name, we pray. Amen.