LEAP opens new grocery store to provide fresh, local produce in Roanoke, connecting farmers with the local community

Roanoke, Virginia – The Local Environmental Agriculture Project (LEAP) has built a new grocery shop targeted at offering fresh, local produce and other food items to the community in an attempt to offset the limited food access in Roanoke’s West End. Operating for around a month, the LEAP Community Store had its grand opening this Wednesday inviting locals to look into its products and meet the local farmers who help to supply the store.

Located at 1027 Patterson Avenue, the store is not just another retail space—it’s a bridge connecting residents with local and regional farmers. The communication manager of LEAP, Christina Nifong, emphasized the need of making healthy foods available, especially to the vulnerable groups of the community like the elderly and those living in small houses without adequate kitchens. For people who might find cooking difficult, Nifong claims its pre-packed meals—such as soups—are simple solutions.

From fruits and vegetables to locally and non-locally obtained basics like rice, the store offers a wide spectrum of goods. This range guarantees that consumers may make decisions fit for their means without sacrificing quality. LEAP has also taken major action to make these choices affordable for everyone.

Anyone getting WIC and Medicaid will get a 50% discount. LEAP is working on offering SNAP recipients the same discount.

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LEAP’s goal revolves mostly on accessibility. Farmers markets are difficult for some, particularly during their operating hours, hence the Community Store offers a more practical and comfortable buying alternative.

“I think it’s a great idea. There’s a food desert currently in that area, and a lot of people don’t have anywhere to shop for groceries,” said Josh Eakin to WSLS.

West End residents have shown their excitement about the new business as well as relief.

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The LEAP Community Store is open every Wednesday, Thursday, and Friday from noon to 7 p.m. The store is yet another evidence of LEAP’s dedication to making premium, nutrient-dense food available to everyone, especially those most in need in Roanoke’s West End.