Lexington Mobile Market Celebrates One-Year Anniversary, Enhances Access to Fresh Food in ‘Food Deserts’

LEXINGTON, Ky. — The Lexington Mobile Market marked its one-year anniversary on Friday, celebrating a significant impact in areas identified as “food deserts.” These are regions where finding fresh and healthy food is particularly challenging for residents.

The mobile market, a 60-foot colorful trailer, provides essential access to fresh produce, canned goods, frozen and refrigerated items, and various household necessities. With over 7,000 transactions completed and sales surpassing $100,000 in its first year, the mobile market is proving to be a vital resource for many.

Located in neighborhoods with limited access to grocery stores, the mobile market operates three times a day, rotating through 22 different sites across Lexington. Regular customers, like Alexander Thomas, who resides at Emerson Center, appreciate the convenience. “It saves me a trip, saves me money, and we got it right here,” Thomas stated.

Lisa Ellis, the market manager, expressed pride in the role the mobile market plays in addressing health disparities. “I enjoy so much just being able to bring the market to locals,” she said. “We’re bringing wholesome foods to an area that couldn’t go and get it.” The market features around 300 different products catering to the local community’s needs.

The initiative originated from a recommendation within the 2020 Racial Justice and Equality Report, prompting the city to collaborate with God’s Pantry Food Bank and Kroger to establish the market. Many senior citizens have highlighted the mobile market’s importance, considering it a blessing to have fresh food options available right at their doorsteps.

The market operates on a cashless basis, accommodating payments through credit and debit cards, as well as SNAP/EBT, making it accessible to a broader audience. For residents of Lexington, the mobile market represents a critical step toward improving food access and promoting healthier lifestyles in underserved areas.