Discover the New Oasis in Maryland: A Game-Changing Market that Transforms Food Deserts

For nearly 20 years, people in Indian Head, Maryland, had to drive almost 10 miles just to buy groceries. That all changed last fall when Mark and Marilyn Steele opened a new food market to help fill this gap in the community.

The Steeles didn’t originally plan to start a grocery business, but it was clear that the need was urgent. “A grocery store is a cornerstone of a community,” Marilyn Steele explained. “If you want to see a healthy community, you’ve got to have a good store.”

For 25 long years, Indian Head had no grocery store. "I can’t believe it took this long," she added, reflecting on the lack of options available to residents.

The town had been classified as a food desert for over a decade. Mayor Brandon Paulin highlighted the struggles of many residents. “A lot of folks don’t have access to transportation. This affects the elderly and people from different income levels,” he said.

Efforts to bring a grocery store to Indian Head go way back. “When Super Fresh left in 1999, it left a big void. Many town councils have tried to solve this issue,” Mayor Paulin noted.

Then came the Steeles. They already ran a coffee shop, but they saw a chance to make a real difference with their new store, Oasis Fresh Foods Market. “I wanted to give everyone a fighting chance at feeding their family well,” Marilyn said. Their market offers fresh produce, meats, canned goods, and even prepared meals, providing everything a family needs.

Research shows that areas with access to grocery stores have healthier populations. According to a study from the Journal of Urban Health, residents in food deserts are 1.7 times more likely to be obese than those with nearby grocery options. The opening of Oasis Fresh Foods could lead to significant improvements in this community.

Community reaction has been overwhelmingly positive. Social media buzzes with excitement as residents share pictures of local produce and customer testimonials. One resident tweeted, “Finally, we can buy fresh groceries without a long drive! Thank you, Oasis!”

The Steeles’ story illustrates the power of community-driven solutions to long-standing problems. With their hard work, Indian Head now has a place to gather healthy food and foster a stronger community.

To learn more about food deserts and their impact, visit The USDA’s Food Access Research.

Check out this related article: Transform Your Family’s Diet: Garden of Hope Introduces Healthier Food Choices for Lower Richland Residents