Dawson community launches micro grocery store to combat food desert challenges

The Tulsa City Council meeting on January 1, 2025, featured a significant discussion regarding the establishment of a micro neighborhood grocery store, known as the bazaar, aimed at addressing food insecurity in the Dawson community. This initiative is designed to provide residents with access to healthy food options at a nonprofit cost, particularly in an area identified as a food desert.

The bazaar will operate on a membership basis, offering free memberships to Dawson residents while those from outside the community can purchase a membership for a nominal fee. Notably, the grocery store will be cashless, allowing transactions through bank cards, SNAP cards, or a preloaded bazaar card, similar to laundromat payment systems.

A key aspect of the bazaar's mission is to support local Oklahoma farmers by creating a market for their produce. The initiative aims to connect community members with local agricultural producers, fostering a sustainable food system. Additionally, the bazaar plans to provide one free meal per child for the 450 students attending local K-12 schools, emphasizing its commitment to ensuring that children do not go without food.

The project is currently in its first phase, which includes the grocery store and food trucks. The bazaar is committed to environmental sustainability, operating entirely on solar energy, utilizing biodegradable packaging, and offering reusable cloth bags.

Funding for the project includes $500,000 allocated from District 3 funds to assist with infrastructure development. The overarching goal of the bazaar is to restore a sense of community and belonging, positioning itself as a vital resource for the Dawson neighborhood.

This initiative, known as Black Rock Creek, is a collaborative effort with the Tulsa Housing Authority's 36 North, and it is anticipated to be a transformative addition to the community, providing essential access to nutritious food and fostering local connections.