Charlotte, North Carolina, November 24, 2025
Charlotte’s Carolina Farm Trust has initiated the first phase of a new market in the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood, enhancing access to nutritious local food while addressing food insecurity. This project aims to support local agriculture and improve food access for low-to-moderate-income households affected by the pandemic. With features like a retail grocery store and community event space, the market is expected to invigorate the local economy and promote sustainable eating habits within the community.
Charlotte, North Carolina – Carolina Farm Trust Launches Phase One of New Market to Enhance Access to Healthy Food in West Charlotte
Charlotte, North Carolina – The Carolina Farm Trust has launched the first phase of a new market in West Charlotte, a significant step aimed at improving local residents’ access to fresh, nutritious food. This initiative is part of a larger commitment to combat food insecurity and bolster local agriculture in the community.
Project Overview
Located in the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood, which has faced considerable economic challenges, the new market will source and sell local food items such as produce, meat, and dairy to both residential and commercial customers. This initiative targets low-to-moderate-income households adversely impacted by the pandemic, highlighting a community-focused approach to addressing food deserts. The project operates within one of the city’s Corridors of Opportunity, an area that has not only experienced economic hardship but also significant divestment since the mid-20th century. The current demographic statistics for the community reveal:
- 75.8% Black or African American residents (compared to 30.7% county-wide)
- 82% of adults in the labor force are employed (93% county-wide)
- 13% of adults over the age of 25 have a bachelor’s degree or higher (44% county-wide)
- Median household income of $29,395 ($61,695 county-wide)
- 43% of residents receive Medicaid or NC Health Choice (15% county-wide)
- 15.8% of births have low birth weight (9.4% county-wide)
- 45% enrolled in Food and Nutrition Services (12% county-wide)
- 3% of housing units within a ½-mile of a full-service, chain grocery store (30% county-wide)
Facility Features
The facility will feature a commercial kitchen and a wholesale distribution center, allowing the Farm Trust to create and distribute products sourced from partner farms. For the West Charlotte community, public-facing amenities will include a retail grocery store, a public teaching kitchen, and a community event space. The overarching goal is to establish an infrastructure for a new local food system that promotes sustainable access to healthy foods and supports local farming. Funding for this project comprises private investments and public support, including a $1.5 million allocation from the city’s Recovery Plan Performance Report. The city distributed $500,000 upon the Trust receiving the construction permit for the facility on April 3, 2023. The remaining $1 million will be released once the Trust obtains the certificate of occupancy. Completion of the project will occur in phases, with the initial phase currently operational and future phases outlined in the months ahead. This initiative aims not just to enhance food accessibility but to invigorate the local economy and encourage community engagement in the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood.
Background Context
Food insecurity is an ongoing issue in Charlotte, with many residents lacking consistent access to healthy and affordable food. The Carolina Farm Trust’s efforts have been formidable in addressing this concern by developing local food systems that serve both farmers and consumers. Previous initiatives, including the Urban Farm at Aldersgate and the Local Food Production & Distribution Facility within the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood, pave the way for a more sustainable and equitable food system in the region.
FAQ
What is the purpose of the new market in West Charlotte?
The new market aims to improve access to fresh, nutritious food for residents in the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood, addressing food insecurity and supporting local agriculture.
What features will the facility include?
The facility will feature a commercial kitchen, a wholesale distribution center, a retail grocery store, a public teaching kitchen, and a community event space.
How is the project funded?
The project is funded through a combination of private investments and public support, including a $1.5 million allocation from the city’s Recovery Plan Performance Report.
When is the project expected to be completed?
The project is expected to be completed in phases, with the first phase now operational and subsequent phases to follow in the coming months.
What other initiatives has the Carolina Farm Trust undertaken?
The Carolina Farm Trust has previously developed the Urban Farm at Aldersgate and the Local Food Production & Distribution Facility in the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood to support local food systems.
Key Features of the New Market in West Charlotte
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Location | Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood, Charlotte, North Carolina |
| Target Community | Low-to-moderate-income households adversely impacted by the pandemic |
| Facility Components | Commercial kitchen, wholesale distribution center, retail grocery store, public teaching kitchen, community event space |
| Funding Sources | Private investments and public support, including a $1.5 million allocation from the city’s Recovery Plan Performance Report |
| Project Timeline | Completed in phases, with the first phase now operational and subsequent phases to follow in the coming months |
| Broader Initiative | Part of a broader effort to revitalize the Thomasboro-Hoskins neighborhood and provide residents with greater access to fresh, locally sourced food options |
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Author: HERE Charlotte
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