Jasmine Crowe-Houston started Goodr in 2017 to tackle food waste and hunger in Atlanta. What began as a small initiative to connect surplus food with communities in need has grown impressively. Today, Goodr operates in 19 states, runs over 28 free grocery stores, and has generated more than $81 million in community value.
Last year, Crowe-Houston saw a need for true neighborhood grocery stores where anyone could buy affordable food. This vision led to the first Goodr Community Market, which opened on Edgewood Avenue in Sweet Auburn in July 2025. “We’re still doing what we’ve always done, but now we want to make fresh food accessible to more families,” she explains.
The Goodr Community Market is a game-changer for Sweet Auburn, a historic neighborhood often overlooked when it comes to food access. Before the market opened, local seniors had to walk over 30 minutes to find a grocery store. Now, they can quickly stop by the market, enhancing community connections. Many of them stroll over together, creating a sense of togetherness.
Unlike larger stores filled with endless aisles, the Goodr Community Market has a more focused selection. “We have 12 options for cereal, instead of an entire aisle,” says Crowe-Houston. The Little Loaf Deli, part of the market, offers affordable meals. Senior customers can grab a fresh deli sandwich for just $5, while kids’ meals cost a friendly $2.50.
This market is more than just a grocery store; it’s a community hub. The City of Atlanta provided a food-access capital grant to keep prices low. Goodr buys groceries at wholesale prices, with a smaller markup than traditional stores—about 15% compared to the usual 60%. They also run promotions, like two-for-one deals, especially for SNAP participants, making it even easier for families facing financial challenges.
The impact of Goodr goes beyond numbers. Crowe-Houston shares touching stories that highlight its success. One grandfather can now take his grandchildren for after-school snacks, while a mother appreciates being able to buy her daughter a $1 ice cream treat. “It feels like a community bodega,” she says, emphasizing how the market forges stronger community ties.
A recent report by the USDA highlights that nearly 14% of U.S. households experience food insecurity, showing the importance of such initiatives. By providing affordable and accessible groceries, Goodr is helping to change that statistic in Sweet Auburn.
For more information on Goodr and their initiatives, you can visit Goodr.
