Today, nearly 34 million Americans live in communities where individuals and families have limited access to affordable, nutritious foods that are needed to maintain good health.
In 2016, Pillsbury United Communities partnered with business and local community leaders to address the persistent food insecurity and health issues facing residents in North Minneapolis, an urban neighborhood with just one full-service supermarket to serve its 67,000 residents. In 2018, they opened North Market, an innovative nonprofit grocery and wellness center aimed at building a healthier community for all.
In the years since, North Market—a 2021 Community Partnership Honorable Mention Award winner—has become a living-wage employer for residents and a community hub that has hosted events such as vaccine clinics and candidate forums, and is helping to revitalize the city’s north side. Residents can purchase food at fair prices; boost their well-being with nutrition and fitness programs that address food-related health issues such as obesity, diabetes and high blood pressure; and buy products from local entrepreneurs.
“Because we’re a nonprofit, North Market is able to put the urgent needs of the neighborhood first,” said Cinnamon Pelly, President and Chief Executive Officer of Pillsbury United Communities. “We’re here for the long term, working to bring more food offerings, more health and wellness experiences, more space for local businesses and more opportunities for our community to build a more vibrant future together.”
The recognition that comes with receiving the prestigious Community Partnership Award has made a difference in our ability to grow and thrive. Mutual of America’s generous support has boosted confidence in our ability to partner widely and dream big about the bright future of North Market and the residents of this amazing neighborhood.”
Cinnamon Pelly
President and Chief Executive Officer,
Pillsbury United Communities
