Dawson community launches cashless grocery store and outdoor learning project

Residents of the Dawson community will soon enjoy improved access to healthy food options with the launch of a new grocery store and food truck initiative, aimed at addressing food insecurity in the area. The project, which is part of a broader effort to revitalize the community, will offer free memberships to local residents, while those from outside Dawson can purchase memberships at a nominal fee.

This initiative, designed to operate without cash transactions, will accept bank cards, SNAP benefits, and allow users to upload cash onto a specialized card, similar to laundromat systems. The goal is to connect local farmers with the community, providing fresh produce at nonprofit prices in a region identified as a food desert. Additionally, the program will ensure that every child in the Dawson neighborhood receives one free meal per day, supporting the nutritional needs of students from K-12.

Phase one of the project includes the grocery store and food trucks, with plans to operate entirely on solar energy and utilize biodegradable packaging. The initiative has secured $500,000 in funding from District 3 to support infrastructure development, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community health.

In conjunction with this grocery initiative, the Flat Rock Creek project aims to enhance outdoor amenities for residents, promoting safe spaces for exercise and nature education. This project has garnered strong community support through town hall meetings and is expected to complement new housing developments in the area, including apartments managed by the Tulsa Housing Authority.

In a separate infrastructure improvement, the city has allocated $150,000 from community development funds and an additional $100,000 from the general fund to repair storm inlets along South Memorial Drive. This funding will address road dips and improve drainage, ensuring a smoother driving experience for residents.

These initiatives reflect a concerted effort to restore vitality to the Dawson neighborhood, providing essential services and amenities that foster community well-being and engagement. As these projects move forward, they promise to create lasting positive impacts for residents and enhance the overall quality of life in the area.