With latest grant, Mott has committed up to $3.6 million for the project
Flint, Michigan – The Charles Stewart Mott Foundation will grant up to $1.5 million to the North Flint Reinvestment Corporation to support startup costs of the North Flint Food Market.
The grant dollars will help NFFM leadership secure a food supplier, buy inventory and equipment and recruit and hire staff. The Mott Foundation previously granted a total of $2.1 million in 2021 and 2022 to support construction and general operations.
“Residents in north Flint need better access to fresh, healthy and affordable food options,” said Ridgway White, president and CEO of the Mott Foundation. “We hope the additional funding will help the food market successfully open and serve the Flint community.”
Residents and supporters broke ground on the market at 5402 Clio Road in August 2021. Brigitte Jackson, NFFM board chair, said it should open for business later this year. Once open, the market will create nearly 30 jobs.
“This grant from the Mott Foundation means hope fulfilled. Our member owners and residents have been ready, and now, with this support, we can finally begin hiring and open the doors,” Jackson said. “We’re deeply grateful for the funding and what it represents: the power of what happens when philanthropy, community and vision align.”
The market is a neighborhood-based cooperative grocery store, which means it is owned by its members, who can vote on how the store is developed and operated. So far, nearly 1,000 people have become members of the co-op. However, residents do not need to become members to shop at the store.
“This critical funding support becomes the push we need to cross the finish line to open,” said the Rev. Dr. Reggie Flynn, executive director of the North Flint Reinvestment Corporation. “We believe the commitment of our member owners, board of directors and residents will be key to our long-term sustainability.”
