Non-profit grocery to open on South Bend's west side

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- An empty store front in LaSalle Square will soon have a non-profit grocery store and cafe called The Eating Well. The city's west side has few options for fresh and healthy food choices.



"We are in an area that is called a food desert," said Jerry Niezgodski, President of the Board of Directors of The Eating Well.



Food deserts are places where affordable and healthy foods are difficult to find.



Niezgodski says the west end of South Bend has very little in the way of grocery stores.



That's why he along community members started the grassroots effort to bring a market back to the area.



"We will have an opportunity to reach out to the community with healthy food, education, and to help them with improving their health outcomes," said Niezgodski.



Right next door is a senior center. Their residents are tired of the current commute to get groceries.



"Six miles from here. Far away," said Ruth.



Ruth lives at the senior center.



"That is good news, I am glad! It will be close to the senior center, it will help make better decisions for eating," said Ruth.



She says healthy options create a better future for the young members of the community.



"When they eat better, they think better, and they are more committed to their goals by going to school and reaching their goals and having a better life for the future," said Ruth.



The store is expected to open in the next couple of months.

Click here for more information about the store's fundraiser in March.