City of Rochester
News Release
Mayor Announces Healthy ROC Grocer Program
City Supports Neighborhood Grocers to Increase Healthy
Options for City Residents
(Wednesday, May 1, 2024) – Mayor Malik D. Evans was
joined by City Council members and local store owners to announce the launch of
the City’s Healthy ROC Grocer program today at City Hall.
The Healthy ROC Grocer program identifies and increases
awareness of small grocers that offer nutritious foods in city neighborhoods.
These convenient locations are easy to access and are important resources for
regular grocery shopping as well as for last-minute meal ingredients. The City
works with qualifying stores (those that offer a range of healthy foods from
multiple FDA-recognized food groups) and provides free in-store signage and
point-of-sale materials as well as an advertising campaign and website.
"I'm proud of small grocers across the city who serve
their neighborhoods with healthier food choices and not simply stock junk food
and sodas with little to no nutritional value,” shared Mayor Evans. "We
have identified a number of small shops that are supporting their communities
with quality foods and sometimes hard-to-find ethnic options. We know there are
more out there, and we are excited to hear from others who want to get
involved.”
Shannon and Kevin Rowe, owners of Empire Meats, offer
vegetables, dairy, and meats at three locations across the city. “We are
excited to be a part of the Healthy ROC Grocer program and take advantage of
everything it offers,” said Shannon. “We do everything we can to serve our
customers healthy delicious options for any meal. When you’re in any of our
stores, you’re in our home.”
The City has 24 grocers currently involved in the program.
To participate, stores must pass an evaluation of their healthier food options;
have no federal, state, or city violations; and promise to use the free
point-of-sale items provided by the city only for displays of nutritious foods.
The City will continue to accept stores on an ongoing basis.
To find a list of stores, visit www.cityofrochester.gov/healthyrocgrocer If you are a grocer in the city of Rochester and want to get involved in the
program, go to www.cityofrochester.gov/grocer to learn more.
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News Media: For more information, contact Communications
Director Barbara Pierce at Barbara.Pierce@cityofrochester.gov.
The Administration of Mayor
Malik D. Evans strives to create a safe, equitable and
prosperous Rochester by inspiring hope and delivering opportunity for everyone.
Guided by the Administration’s Mission, Vision and Values and the principles of the “Rochester
2034” comprehensive plan, City employees are committed to providing
exceptional customer service, transparent stewardship, and collaborative
leadership to foster a vibrant community that empowers personal, professional
and generational growth for all who live, work or play in the city of
Rochester.