Big River Grocery Timeline
At the heart of our story is a shared commitment to:
Establish a sustainable, community-owned grocery store in Helena, Arkansas.
Ensure access to fresh, healthy, and affordable food for all residents.
Create a vibrant community gathering place that supports local food entrepreneurship and education.
2024
2025
2026
Idea for Big River Grocery
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Big River Grocery receives planning grant
Big River Grocery received a $150,000 planning grant from the Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI).
The Church is donated to Big River Grocery
The First Presbyterian Church congregation donates the church building for BRG’s future home.
Market Feasibility Study completed
A Market Study was completed by Columinate/G2G Analytics, LLC, confirming the site’s strong potential.
Steering Committee formed
A Steering Committee of 20+ people was formed, and a Working Agreement was adopted.
Food Cooperative Initiative Peer Learning Group
3 members of the Steering Committee joined an 11-month peer learning group through the Food Cooperative Initiative to learn how to start, grow, and sustain a food cooperative.
Holiday Market Hosted
A Holiday Market was hosted to connect the community and share the word about Big River Grocery.
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2022
The Church is registered as a historical landmark
Built in 1925, the First Presbyterian Church was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2022.