After being closed to the public in response to the COVID-19 pandemic, Metro Caring’s Fresh Foods Choice Market reopened its doors on Thursday. 

Although the market, which provides food to anyone at no cost with no questions, has reopened, the shopping experience will look a little different, It will reopen in several phases with the first focused on food distribution.

“Food is such an integral part of our existence. It is medicine. It nourishes our bodies, our minds and our spirits,” said Neambe Leadon, senior manager of food sovereignty at Metro Caring.

“I have had the privilege of witnessing the positive effects the Fresh Foods Choice Market at Metro Caring has had on our community prior to COVID-19. It stands out, providing a space of respect and compassion … I am so excited for this reopening to restore the choice that is so foundational to this food access work.”

The market will still have strict policies in regards to mask wearing and social distancing. 

Additionally, Metro Caring will require its onsite staff and volunteers to regular clean and sanitize all carts and market materials, while also requiring them to be fully vaccinated by the beginning of August, according to a news release.

Identification and birth certification vouchers will be distributed as they are available at the site and cooking classes and neutron program will resume in a hybrid and in-person model. 

Throughout the pandemic, the number of people utilizing Metro Caring’s services grew over 200% as the organization went from serving 2,364 families each month to 7,128.

As a result of additional needs, Metro Caring has added temporary employees and greatly increased their food supply.

Anyone wishing to make an appointment can go to www.metrocaring.org and click the “Make a Food Appointment” tab, or call 303-860-7200.