Evaluating the Impact of Opening a Full-Service Grocery Store in a Low-Income, Underserved Neighborhood

Start Date: September 2008

ID #: 65064

Principal Investigator: Victor Rubin, PhD, MCP

Organization: PolicyLink

Funding Round: Round 3

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This study will utilize a “natural experiment” study design, examining the influence of the opening of a new full-service grocery store in a low-income, multi-ethnic neighborhood in San Francisco. The specific aims of the study include: (a) assessing the impact of the opening of this grocery store on healthy food and beverage availability in an underserved community, (b) assessing the impact of this store opening on the food purchasing and eating practices of local families living in the area within one year of the opening, and (c) assessing the community perceptions related to the advantages and/or disadvantages of a new supermarket in their community. A mixed method data collection approach will be used before and after the opening of the new store.

Age Groups: Adolescents (grades 9 to 12), Adults and Families, Elementary-age children (grades K to 5), Preschool-age children (ages 3 to 5), Young adolescents (grades 6 to 8)

Race/Ethnicity: African American or Black, Asian, Latino(a) or Hispanic, Multi-racial/ethnic

State: California

Keywords: Community setting, Fruits and vegetables, Grocery store, Neighborhood, Urban

Focus Areas: Food Access, Food Retail

Resource Type: Grant Summary

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