How to find healthy food in Birmingham’s food-insecure neighborhoods

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Of all the things Birmingham is known for, one of our greatest strengths is how we come together to tackle challenges head-on.

Keep reading to explore five places where you can acquire quality eats in and around The Magic City.

According to the City of Birmingham, nearly 70% of the city’s residents live in neighborhoods lacking access to fresh, affordable foods.

That means upwards of 146,000 locals are currently living in food deserts. Many of these individuals are forced to choose between affordable food and food that is nutritious. 

Having food security benefits us all, and several places across our city truly understand just how vital it is.

Jones Valley Teaching Farm is an incredible nonprofit organization located in downtown Birmingham.

Its onsite, self-serve produce stand rotates a seasonal harvest of more than 200 varieties of vegetables, fruits and herbs for people in the community to enjoy.

From April through November, don’t miss your chance to stock up on free, nutritious produce.

• Location: 701 25th St N, Birmingham, AL 35203
• Hours: April-November | Wednesday, 3:30-5:30PM
• More info

Located in Avondale, Red Bird Produce sells affordable, Alabama-grown produce from local farmers.

This accessible-to-everyone grocery store has an assortment of food options for in-store purchase or delivery.

Psst, join their Meal Kit Club for easy-to-prepare meals and exclusive weekly in-store discounts.

• Location: 131 41st St S, Birmingham, AL 35222
• Hours: Tuesday-Friday, 10AM-6PM | Saturday, 10AM-3PM | Sunday, 11AM-3PM

3. Marino’s Market | Ensley

In 1925, Tony and Mary Marino founded Marino’s Grocery with the mission to serve their local community with quality meats, produce and groceries at affordable prices.

Now, nearly a century later, the Marino family proudly owns and operates this grocery store, serving Ensley with clean and fresh meats, produce and more.

• Location: 2415 Avenue E, Birmingham, AL 35218
• Hours: Daily, 7AM-8PM

Carver Jones Market opened on July 31, making it Fairfield’s first grocery store since 2016.

With weekly deals on individual items and discounts for students, seniors and military members, patrons can eat clean without breaking the bank.

This place is more than just a grocery store; the company is also involved in various initiatives like cooking classes and nutrition education.

• Location: 4800 Gary Ave, Fairfield, AL 35064
• Hours: Monday-Saturday, 8AM-7PM | Sunday, 1-6PM

Publix Super Market located in Midtown has served the Birmingham community faithfully since 2017.

Publix Super Markets Charities donates fresh produce from farmers to local Feeding America partner food banks across the city.

Its ‘Helping to End Hunger’ initiative also donates a variety of meats, dairy, produce and baked goods to those facing hunger locally.

• Location: 230 20th St S, Birmingham, AL 35233
• Hours: Daily, 7AM-10PM

Where do you find healthy food across Birmingham? Tag us @bhamnow + let us know.

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