A food desert is an urban area in which it is difficult to buy affordable or good-quality fresh food. Sadly, most food deserts affect neighborhoods that are inhabited by Black and brown people. Kentucky resident Megan Bell wanted to change that narrative in Louisville’s West End.

Bell, who is the founder of the non-profit Virtuous Women of Empowerment and a mom of three, bought a 9,000 square foot building that was once home to a food supply store.

“I think a lot about the cultural barriers, I think about the food deserts, and I think about the community transportation,” Bell said in a statement. “When you think about urban neighborhoods, there is nothing but corner stores, liquor stores, and gas stations – that’s really where they get their food from.”

The grocery store, which she will call The Next Door Market, will serve as a place for residents in the area to purchase fresh foods and produce at an affordable price.

She will work closely with community developers as well as community groups to ensure the space is meeting the needs of its citizens. She will also hire those who live in the neighborhood to work at the market.

“It’s important to understand what the community needs and what they want, and to hear their voices of what they want,” Bell said. 

The store is slated to open in 2021. In the meantime, she is trying to raise nearly $1,000,000 through crowdfunding to get and keep the store running.

To learn more about The Next Door Market and to follow its progress, check out the Facebook page.

Related: 10 Black-Owned Restaurants In Louisville, Kentucky