Invest Atlanta is addressing food insecurity in Atlanta by allocating $2.5 million in funding to increase access to healthy, affordable food for underserved communities. With 14% of Atlanta’s population facing food insecurity, particularly in low-income and low-access areas, this initiative is crucial to improving the well-being of thousands of residents.
As part of this effort, the Commercial Property Improvement Grant for Grocery Operators has provided $750,000 in direct investment to 15 small, local food markets. These funds are supporting the preservation and growth of neighborhood grocery stores, helping to increase fresh food availability in areas where it’s most needed.
Additionally, the Atlanta Food Access Catalyst Grant Program, enabled by a $6 million investment, focuses on bringing fresh food options to food deserts. The program has already funded multiple projects aimed at increasing food access in areas where grocery stores are scarce.
To further address the issue, Invest Atlanta has approved more than $8.1 million in funding to open two new grocery stores in food deserts, one in Southwest Atlanta (Azalea Fresh Market) and another in Downtown Atlanta. These stores will offer fresh produce, meats, dairy, and other essential grocery items, while also creating 80 jobs and contributing an estimated $21 million in economic impact.
This collaborative effort demonstrates the City of Atlanta’s commitment to addressing food insecurity and fostering economic growth in underserved communities.