Recent grocery store closures have intensified worries about food insecurity and equity across the city. This is leading to what experts call “food deserts” – areas where residents have limited access to full-service grocery stores.
In just the past year, multiple stores have shut their doors, including a Sentry Foods on West Silver Spring, an Aldi on North Hopkins Street, and several Pick ‘n Save locations, leaving residents with fewer nearby options for basic groceries.
City leaders and community advocates warn these closures disproportional impact low-income residents, seniors, and families without reliable transportation, making it harder for these communities to access nutritious food.
Despite the challenges, local organizations and neighborhood leaders are working to support remaining food retailers and explore long-term solutions. Stores like Sherman Park Grocery have become critical community resources, helping fill gaps while larger policy and development conversations continue.
Wisconsin’s Afternoon News: A deep dive into food deserts in Milwaukee
To better understand the scope of the problem — and what can be done — Wisconsin’s Afternoon News dedicated an hour-long exclusive radio feature to food deserts in Milwaukee.
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