Dawson community launches micro grocery to combat food desert and support local farmers

This article was created by AI using a video recording of the meeting. It summarizes the key points discussed, but for full details and context, please refer to the video of the full meeting. Link to Full Meeting

Residents of the Dawson community in Tulsa can look forward to a new micro grocery store aimed at addressing food insecurity in the area. The initiative, which is membership-based, will offer free memberships to local residents while those from outside the community can join for a nominal fee. This cashless grocery store will accept bank cards, SNAP cards, and allow users to upload cash onto a bazaar card, ensuring accessibility for all.

The grocery store is part of a broader mission to provide healthy food options at nonprofit prices in a region identified as a food desert. In addition to grocery services, the bazaar will provide one free meal per child for all 450 students in the Dawson neighborhood, reinforcing the commitment to combat child hunger.

This project, known as Black Rock Creek, is a collaboration with the Tulsa Housing Authority's 36 North and aims to create a vibrant community hub. Plans include biking and walking trails, a fishing pond, and outdoor learning experiences for local schools, enhancing the quality of life for residents and promoting healthy lifestyles.

In another significant development, the city council has allocated $150,000 for road improvements on South Memorial Drive. This funding will address long-standing issues with storm inlets that have caused a bumpy ride for drivers. The project aims to elevate the drainage system and smooth out the road, promising a more comfortable driving experience by summer.

These initiatives reflect a strong commitment to improving community infrastructure and access to essential services, with the potential to transform the lives of residents in Tulsa's Dawson neighborhood and beyond.

Converted from Tulsa - Regular Council Meeting - Jan 01, 2025 meeting on January 01, 2025
Link to Full Meeting