NEWPORT NEWS, Va. — Shoppers struggling with food insecurity in Newport News have a new grocery option.
Local nonprofit THRIVE Peninsula officially opened the Virginia Peninsula's first free grocery store last week.
Called The Market at THRIVE, its goal is to expand access to more nutritious food and help address food insecurity in the surrounding communities. People who live in Hampton, Newport News and York County can shop there once every 30 days by appointment only.
"We know that roughly 60% of families who struggle with food insecurity won't visit a food pantry because of the stigma. That stigma keeps hungry families at home, skipping meals or eating smaller meals and buying chips instead of fruit," THRIVE Peninsula Executive Director Angela York previously told 13News Now.
The Market at THRIVE offers visitors a supermarket experience, with grocery store equipment and shelving donated by Food Lion. Visitors can choose all of the items they take home, allowing them to select items that meet their preferences and dietary restrictions.
THRIVE said there are no income requirements and they will not ask invasive questions. Peninsula residents can book a shopping appointment on THRIVE's website once every 30 days. And new appointments are made available every day.
THRIVE Peninsula recently received $225,000 from Food Lion Feeds to support the grocery store. People in the community can also donate goods and make financial contributions to help maintain and improve the program. THRIVE is also planning to open a free bookstore later this December.
The Market at THRIVE is located at 12749 Nettles Drive in Newport News. Its hours are Monday through Thursday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and on Friday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.