Community demands action amid Safeway closure's impact on Fillmore food access

The recent San Francisco County meeting highlighted urgent community concerns following the abrupt closure of the Safeway store on Fillmore Street, a vital resource for local residents. The closure has left many, particularly seniors and low-income families, without easy access to fresh food, pharmacy services, and banking, exacerbating existing food insecurity in the area.

Community members voiced their frustrations during public comments, emphasizing the historical neglect faced by the Fillmore community, which has long been impacted by systemic racism and gentrification. Many speakers called for immediate action, urging the city to explore options such as the Community Opportunity to Purchase Act (COPPA) and eminent domain to ensure that the site is developed in a way that benefits local residents rather than corporate interests.

Several speakers proposed the establishment of a community-driven grocery store or cooperative market to replace Safeway, emphasizing the need for a sustainable solution that prioritizes food access and community health. The idea of utilizing the space for temporary food markets or pop-up grocery stores was also discussed as a short-term measure to address immediate needs.

The meeting underscored a collective demand for accountability from Safeway and the city, with calls for transparency in negotiations with potential developers. Community leaders stressed the importance of involving residents in the decision-making process to ensure that future developments reflect the needs and desires of those who live in the area.

As the city grapples with the implications of this closure, the voices of Fillmore residents serve as a powerful reminder of the ongoing struggle for food justice and equitable access to essential services in San Francisco. The next steps will be crucial in determining how the community can reclaim its resources and ensure that its needs are met moving forward.