Living on a fixed income often means making tough choices—especially when it comes to food. In White Bear Lake, 51% of households receiving SNAP benefits include a senior citizen, a figure significantly higher than surrounding zip codes. For many older adults, mobility and transportation challenges add another layer of difficulty accessing nutritious food.
Mobile Markets are pop-up grocery and produce markets set up in public spaces around town and in senior housing communities. During a recent visit to Willow Wood Apartments, the impact was clear. Residents greeted volunteers with smiles and gratitude, one sharing,
“I feel very fortunate every time I come to the market.”
The Mobile Market meets residents where they are— literally. On this visit to Willow Wood Apartments, 80% of the apartment’s residents participated. Grocery bags were tucked into four-wheeled walkers as neighbors browsed the tables, chatting with volunteers about new foods and favorite finds. Milk and fresh produce were especially popular, along with simple, microwave-friendly meals. Others expressed appreciation for protein options they could cook at home. One 89-year-old shopper beamed, “I love the variety of food.”
The White Bear Area Food Shelf provides food for the community at 28 locations throughout the year, including Mobile Markets, school and community partner pantries, and our two flagship brick‑and‑mortar locations. The Mobile Market program at the White Bear Area Food Shelf partners with organizations across the community to bring food closer to neighbors in need, whether that is a college student balancing studies and employment, a senior living on a limited fixed income, or a friend experiencing housing insecurity. In the summer, weekly Free Produce Markets pop-up throughout the community helping to increase access to food. Mobile programs provide the essential flexibility to meet neighbors where they are, ensuring food is available in the places they already learn, gather, and receive support
