MILWAUKEE — Moe Wince has spent nearly four years working to provide affordable groceries in Sherman Park, one of Milwaukee’s few food deserts. Now, he’s facing tough times just trying to keep the doors open at his community grocery store.
“It’s hard to admit, but we are really struggling,” Wince said.
Several factors have hit the store hard: rising food prices, damage from flooding, cuts in federal food benefits, and increasing theft. These challenges make it difficult to sustain the business.
Neighbors like Lydell Ramey, who visits the store several times each month, feel the potential loss deeply. “If they close, I’d be heartbroken. They have things here that you just can’t find elsewhere,” Ramey shared.
For others in the community, the store represents more than just groceries. Regular shopper Vickie Finley emphasized the importance of supporting Black-owned businesses. “It’s convenient and right on major streets. Losing this store would be a huge shame,” she said.
The nearest alternative grocery store is a Pick ‘n Save over a mile and a half away—far for residents without easy transportation options.
Wince is reaching out for help, hoping for financial assistance and community support. “How can we keep providing fresh fruits and affordable food to our community, especially in a food desert?” he asked.
Despite the challenges, Wince has a clear vision for improving the neighborhood. “This is a community. We need to bring back that sense of neighborhood,” he said.
According to recent research by the U.S. Department of Agriculture, approximately 39 million people in the U.S. live in food deserts. These areas lack easy access to healthy, affordable food, which contributes to health disparities.
If you’re in the area and want to help, you can reach Wince at the store phone number (414) 810-4919 or email him at wincenassoc@aol.com.
The struggles of Moe Wince and his grocery store highlight the ongoing issues faced by many communities. Supporting local businesses like his can make a real difference.
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