Categories: Business NewsMission, KSNews

Kansas City Council Supports SunFresh Grocery Store

Local community shopping at SunFresh grocery store.

News Summary

The Kansas City Council has approved a $611,500 funding package to support the SunFresh grocery store at 31st and Prospect, aiming to prevent a food desert in the area. This assistance includes rent relief and operational claims. However, there are concerns over safety and competition among local grocery stores. Councilwoman Melissa Robinson emphasized the store’s vital role for residents reliant on accessible food options.

Kansas City Council Takes Action to Save SunFresh Grocery Store

In a significant move to combat the looming threat of a food desert, the Kansas City Council has approved a generous support package for the struggling SunFresh grocery store located at 31st and Prospect. This decision, which came through a unanimous vote of 11-0 on Thursday, represents a collective effort aimed at ensuring that residents on the east side of the city continue to have access to fresh and affordable groceries.

A Much-Needed Lifeline

The newly-approved funding package totals an impressive $611,500 and is the result of months of dedicated negotiations. The ordinance was championed by Councilwoman Melissa Robinson, who stressed the importance of the grocery store in the community. It’s a lifeline for many residents who rely on SunFresh for their daily needs, especially those who may not have easy transportation options.

Part of the support includes $161,500 for rent relief and a substantial $450,000 to settle operational claims for the store’s operators, Community Builders KC. However, this funding comes with stipulations: the organization must present comprehensive future plans within a six-month check-in requirement. If those plans don’t materialize, the remaining funds will be redirected to the city’s Back to Business Grant Program for other businesses in need.

Concerns Surrounding Sales and Community Safety

Unfortunately, SunFresh has faced some tough challenges. Reports indicate the grocery store lost a staggering $1.3 million in 2023, largely due to declining sales driven by safety concerns. Customers have been frustrated with empty shelves and supply shortages, raising doubts about whether the store can continue in its current form.

Adding to the concerns, other grocery store owners in the area have questioned why they haven’t received similar financial support. For example, owners like Muhammad Abubakar from Happy Foods shared how he invests heavily—around $10,000 monthly on security and over $100,000 in infrastructure improvements. The stark contrast in financial assistance has left local business owners feeling overlooked.

The Bigger Picture

Community advocates have pointed to rampant crime and insecurity surrounding the SunFresh store as critical factors driving customers away. Issues like theft and vandalism have adversely affected customer traffic, making it increasingly difficult for this essential grocery outlet to survive.

The city’s leadership, including Mayor Quinton Lucas, has voiced the rationale behind this funding decision, highlighting the need for a healthy landlord-tenant relationship and a commitment to the community’s health. The ongoing fight against a food desert is not merely about the store itself, but also about ensuring that families can access nutritious food options safely and conveniently.

A Community Cornerstone

Residents have consistently rallied around SunFresh, underscoring its critical role in providing affordable grocery options, especially for those who rely on public transportation or walking. As concerns over food accessibility mount, there is a feeling that this grocery store plays a pivotal role in sustaining the community’s food security.

Looking Forward

The newly approved funding aims to tackle immediate operational needs while paving the way for long-term solutions to revitalize the area and improve safety. This kind of municipal support is crucial for maintaining not just a grocery store, but the heart of a community that fears losing its connection to fresh food.

In essence, the Kansas City Council’s efforts reflect a growing sense of urgency to protect vital resources in the community, and the hope is that with this funding, SunFresh will rise to better serve its loyal customers while fostering a safer shopping environment.