A Griffin Heights Community Project · 1309 Alabama Street
Securing The Asset
The future of “The Grocery Store” is being decided right now. Let’s decide it together, in the open, as a community.
Quick Update
“The Grocery Store”: Where Things Stand
Last updated: November 8, 2026The building is ready
The City of Tallahassee built a new store and covered pavilion at 1309 Alabama Street for the neighborhood.
Yes, the store is up for grabs
The City is accepting proposals from any qualified operator through December 2, 2026. Whoever is chosen will run the space for at least five years.
So we secure it together
A proposal built with Griffin Heights, not just for it, keeps this space working for the people who asked for it.
Our Vision
What It Is, and What It Isn’t
It is A Community Enrichment Center
- Access to healthy, affordable food
- Services and support for families
- Education: nutrition, cooking, gardening and job skills
- Community engagement: events, partners and a place to gather
It isn’t Just a grocery store
- A store that has to survive on grocery sales alone
- A corner store built on alcohol, tobacco or lottery
- A plan made without the people who live here
Why more than a grocery store? A small store runs on very thin margins, and similar city-backed markets have closed. Pairing healthy food with programs, partners and services gives the space more than one way to stay open.
How It Works
Three Parts, One Community Hub
The Griffin Heights Neighborhood First Plan already calls for a community garden with university partners, nutrition and cooking classes, and a farmers market. This brings them under one roof.
Food Access
- Neighborhood market for daily staples
- Order online, pick up on site
- Farmers market at the pavilion
Learning & Programs
- Nutrition and cooking classes
- Family and community events
- Village of Care support and job training
Research & Universities
- Partnerships with FAMU and FSU
- Community garden with students
- Health and food-access studies
Timeline
Key Dates
Take Action
Pledge to Support
Tell us how you’d like to help secure the asset. It takes about a minute.
The Ubuntu Box
Share a Concern, an Idea or a Request
Every voice matters here. Tell us what’s on your mind, ask to partner, or request a meeting. Messages go straight to our team at [email protected].
Ubuntu: “I am because we are.”