A Cornerstone for Health and Community Development in West Philadelphia
Introduction
In West Philadelphia’s Haddington neighborhood — a historically underserved, majority African American community — access to affordable, nutritious food has long been a challenge. EC Food Market, a BIWOC-owned corner store, has emerged as a vital solution, thanks to strategic investments made possible through Healthy Food Financing Initiatives (HFFIs) and the support of The Food Trust.
The Haddington neighborhood faces significant barriers: it is classified as both a low-income and low-access area, with a median household income of $46,492 compared to Pennsylvania’s $76,081, and with 40% of families receiving SNAP benefits. Chronic health conditions are also prevalent, with nearly one in five adults diagnosed with diabetes and over 40% experiencing high blood pressure. Prior to the store’s transformation, residents had few options: the nearest full-service supermarket was nearly a mile away, and the existing corner stores offered little to no fresh produce.
Community Context
Recognizing the critical need for healthy food access, EC Food Market applied for and received funding through the Pennsylvania Fresh Food Financing Initiative (PA FFFI). The funding enabled the store to undergo major renovations, including repairing the floors, upgrading signage, and purchasing new equipment such as a freezer for healthy proteins like chicken, fish, and shrimp. The store also invested in shelving and baskets to better display fresh produce. These physical upgrades not only improved the shopping experience but also helped reshape the store’s identity from a miscellaneous convenience shop into a clean, welcoming mini-market. According to the owner, something as simple as replacing the old floor surprised and delighted customers, reinforcing how important the shopping environment is to the overall community experience.
Transformation Through Healthy Food Financing
Beyond financial support, The Food Trust provided technical assistance, connecting the store to local produce distributors and offering programming support through the Heart Smarts program. The Heart Smarts initiative brought weekly nutrition education, free health screenings, and healthy food incentive programs like Heart Bucks directly into the store. The store even installed a free Higi machine, allowing customers to monitor their blood pressure easily and regularly.
Since implementing these upgrades, EC Food Market has experienced tangible benefits. There has been a notable increase in the variety and availability of healthy foods such as fruits, vegetables, and lean proteins. Customer satisfaction has grown, and emotional connections to the store have strengthened. Importantly, the store has seen increased sales, particularly from SNAP/EBT purchases of healthier items, and has created new employment opportunities, now sustaining three full-time employees. EC Food Market’s transformation has deeply resonated with local residents, many of whom express appreciation for the changes and the store’s new focus on health and community well-being.
Future Outlook
Looking ahead, EC Food Market is determined to build on its success. Plans are underway to install a hot kitchen, upgrade the store’s front door, and invest in an online ordering system that would integrate with platforms like Uber Eats and DoorDash. While these developments will require additional capital, they reflect the store’s commitment to meeting the evolving needs of its community. Continued investment through programs like HFFIs remains crucial to sustaining and expanding these gains.
Ultimately, EC Food Market’s story illustrates the profound impact that targeted investments, community partnerships, and supportive initiatives like those led by The Food Trust can have in transforming neighborhoods. As cities across the country grapple with food insecurity and health disparities, EC Food Market stands as a replicable model for how healthy food financing and grassroots leadership can foster stronger, healthier communities.
General Manager: Clara Olivares
County: Philadelphia County
Region: Southeast
Geographical context: Urban
Date Funded: February 2023