What's Happening?
Feed the Mass, a nonprofit organization, is set to open 1st & Nourish Market in Old Town, Portland, by the end of 2026. This initiative aims to bring a full-service grocery store back to a neighborhood that has lacked one for decades. The market will
be located on the ground floor of the Nourish Building, Feed the Mass's five-story headquarters at 80 NW Davis St. The store plans to operate four days a week initially, accepting EBT and offering online ordering and delivery services. Jacob Valentine, founder and executive director of Feed the Mass, emphasized that the store's primary goal is to feed the community, not to generate profit. The market will prioritize local sourcing and aims for a zero-waste model, utilizing unsold produce in the 7,000 meals the nonprofit already prepares weekly.
Why It's Important?
The opening of 1st & Nourish Market is a significant development for Old Town, Portland, addressing a long-standing issue of food insecurity and lack of access to fresh produce in a densely populated area. For decades, residents, including many vulnerable individuals served by local organizations, have had limited options for groceries, often requiring travel to other districts. This new market, driven by a nonprofit, represents a community-centric approach to urban development, focusing on local needs rather than shareholder profits. It also supports local farmers by providing a steady demand for their crops. The initiative could serve as a model for other urban areas facing similar challenges, demonstrating how community-led efforts can revitalize neighborhoods and improve residents' quality of life.
What's Next?
The immediate next step for Feed the Mass is to clear the final permitting hurdles for construction, which is expected to take approximately three months once demolition begins. If permitting proceeds smoothly, the 1st & Nourish Market could open by the end of 2026. Upon opening, the market will start with a four-day-a-week schedule, with hours adjusted based on community demand. Feed the Mass plans to implement online ordering and delivery services early on to ensure accessibility. The organization is also actively fundraising, seeking $50,000 to support the market's launch. The success of this model could influence future urban planning and community development strategies in Portland and beyond.
Beyond the Headlines
This project goes beyond simply opening a grocery store; it represents a fundamental shift in how urban communities can address systemic issues like food deserts and neighborhood revitalization. By integrating the market with Feed the Mass's existing meal preparation operations, the initiative creates a sustainable, zero-waste ecosystem that maximizes resource utilization. The nonprofit's ownership model challenges traditional business paradigms, prioritizing community well-being over financial returns. This could foster a new wave of social entrepreneurship where organizations leverage their buying power and infrastructure to create holistic solutions for local challenges. The market's presence is also expected to increase foot traffic and foster a sense of community in Old Town, potentially catalyzing further regeneration and investment in the area.
