Food giveaway supports Grays Ferry residents after supermarket closure

GRAYS FERRY (WPVI) -- Residents in Philadelphia's Grays Ferry neighborhood lined up for free groceries and baby items as the nearby Fresh Grocer remained closed due to a parking garage demolition, leaving the community without a convenient place to buy food.

As a result, city officials and community organizations organized a food distribution event at Donald P. Finnegan Playground to meet residents' immediate needs.

"We were wondering where we were going to go to next to get some food," said Norman Best of Grays Ferry.

The line for supplies wrapped around the corner as people waited for assistance. Officials said the event was part of a broader effort to support a neighborhood dealing with recent challenges.

"The neighborhood and our city right now they're dealing with the trauma of the tragedy that took place so whatever we can do to add to the level of healing that's what today is about," said Council President Kenyatta Johnson.

The giveaway was a collaboration between the city, Philabundance and other community organizations.

"This is one of the times for our city but it shows the city at its best people coming together," said Vince Schiavone, President of Caring for Friends.

Michael Harris, international president of Mu Beta Phi Military Fraternity Incorporated, said the effort reflects a shared responsibility to support the community.

"When you have situations that transpire like that it affects the whole community so at some point in time it's our job to step up," Harris said.

Mayor Cherelle Parker also participated in the event, working alongside volunteers and partners.

"To be in this region and have your main supermarket closed for 4 days thats a challenge," Parker said.

City officials said the goal was not only to provide food but also to bring residents together during a difficult time.

"We wanted to do something to bring everybody together. Get them some food and make sure they're good," said Anton Moore, Executive Director of Public Engagement and Neighborhood Affairs.

Residents expressed gratitude for the support, noting the difficulty of accessing groceries without transportation.

"I'm just glad that they are having this because with the super market being closed we have to walk, the people who don't have a car have to walk 10 blocks and we don't have it," said Michelle Reid of Grays Ferry.

Even amid challenges, some reflected on the neighborhood's resilience.

"This is brotherly love it's our slogan and this is what we live by so kudos to Philadelphia," Best said.

City leaders also went door to door speaking with residents and said resources will remain available as long as there is a need.