by FLINT, Michigan — After years of anticipation, the North Flint Food Market is set to open its doors to the public on Nov. 12, marking a major milestone for residents on Flint’s north side.
This new cooperative grocery store represents a decade-long effort by community leaders, organizers, and residents to address a longstanding food desert in the area.
Doors will open at 11:30 a.m. for the opening celebration, followed by a dedication program at 11:40 a.m., leading up to the official opening at noon. The event will feature remarks from key figures, including Board Chairwoman Brigitte Brown Jackson, General Manager Patricia Wright, and co-founder Rev. Dr. Reginald Flynn, all of whom have played critical roles in making the market a reality.
A Community Effort Spanning Over a Decade
“This is a moment of pride for our community,” said Brigitte Brown Jackson, Chairwoman of the North Flint Food Market board. “We’ve worked toward this day for more than 10 years, and now our members finally have the store they built together.”
The cooperative model allows area residents to become members, giving them access to discounted shopping and a sense of ownership in the store. However, the general public is welcome to shop at the market, ensuring that everyone in the community can access fresh and affordable groceries.
Filling a Food Desert on Flint’s North Side
The North Flint Food Market is located at 5402 Clio Road, a location chosen to serve residents who have been without convenient access to fresh food since Meijer and Kroger closed stores along the Pierson Road corridor. The new store provides a full-service supermarket experience, including groceries, meat, deli products, bakery items, and more.
“This store is more than a place to buy groceries — it’s a symbol of empowerment and unity,” said Rev. Dr. Reginald Flynn, co-founder of the market. “It’s proof that when a community believes in itself, anything is possible. The market is part of a larger vision to transform this area of North Flint.”
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Leadership and Vision Behind the Market
General Manager Patricia Wright emphasized that the store will focus on serving the needs of residents, offering fresh produce, quality meats, and locally sourced goods whenever possible. The cooperative structure encourages community engagement, allowing members to provide feedback on products, store policies, and special initiatives.
Jackson added that the opening is just the first step in a series of efforts to revitalize Flint’s north side.
“We hope the market will inspire other community-led projects and provide an economic boost to local businesses,” she said.
Looking Ahead: A Bigger Celebration in January
While the Nov. 12 opening marks the store’s first day of business, a larger grand opening celebration is scheduled for Jan. 17, with more details expected in the coming months. The event will likely include community activities, live demonstrations, and an opportunity for residents to learn more about becoming members.
Community leaders hope the market will not only address immediate grocery needs but also create jobs, support local suppliers, and serve as a hub for neighborhood engagement.
A Symbol of Unity and Empowerment
For residents of North Flint, the market represents more than just a store. It is a testament to what can be achieved when communities come together to tackle shared challenges.
As Jackson said, “The North Flint Food Market shows that through collaboration, persistence, and belief in our community, we can create solutions that benefit everyone.”
The market has already received strong support from local residents, many of whom are excited to have convenient access to fresh food after years of limited options.
Share Your Thoughts: If you’re a Flint resident or have visited the North Flint Food Market, comment on your experience and thoughts about community-led initiatives at race-day-live.com. Let others know how local projects like this impact your neighborhood!
