Bama Health Foods has been serving the Five Points West and Ensley Heights communities for over 50 years. Recently, under the ownership of Jacquie Fasekas, the store has expanded its mission. This came to life with the opening of Nourish Grocer on December 6. This new store aims to offer organic, seasonal produce, herbs, probiotics, and healthy snacks, catering especially to those with dietary restrictions.
Despite having other stores nearby, many don’t provide adequate health-focused options. “It’s hard to believe that some people don’t have access to basic healthy foods,” Fasekas noted. Many residents must travel quite a distance to find essentials like oats, chia seeds, or Greek yogurt, with the closest major grocery store being over six miles away.
According to a report, around 70% of Birmingham residents live in food deserts. These areas lack easy access to affordable, nutritious food. This situation could worsen as SNAP benefits are reduced and funding for food banks declines, which is a significant concern for local leaders.
Councilor Sonja Smith expressed her worries, stating that grocery stores in District 8 are rare. “This new space is crucial because it offers healthy food alternatives,” she said.
Nourish Grocer aims not just to sell food but to promote healthy living. Staff at Nourish believe that access to healthy foods should also include education. It focuses on quick-prep meals and clean, ready-to-eat options. Fasekas describes it as a “yes store”—every item supports wellness. She spends time helping customers find what they need based on their health goals.
Fasekas also wants to change the mindset that healthy eating is always expensive. Nutrition classes and cooking demos are part of the plan to educate the community about health issues like diabetes and hypertension. These are common challenges in the area, particularly among the Black community.
Intern Asi Gray sees Nourish as empowering, especially for those hesitant to seek traditional medical care. “Even picky eaters find something they enjoy here,” she shared. Ash Pyant, a four-year employee, has transformed her view of food into something that can prevent illnesses, trying new dishes like squash soup and kohlrabi.
Antonio Smith, a vegan student at Miles College, highlighted the importance of having nearby access to healthy options. He previously had to make multiple trips to far-off stores. Now, Nourish helps him explore food while supporting the community, helping him develop healthier habits for his family.
Community members feel a strong connection to Nourish. One shopper who has visited for over 40 years said, “It feels like coming home to my fridge.”
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economic development,food desert
