City officials and community members say the store is part of an effort to address food insecurity and reduce the impact of food deserts in the city.
Residents welcomed the new store, noting that it provides access to fresh and healthy food within walking distance for many people in the neighborhood.
"You have a lot of people in the community who don't even have cars...they can literally walk right here and purchase fresh items that they need," customer Saunja Butler said.
Customer Teresa Mobley said the store's location makes it convenient for nearby residents.
"I can go right up to Central Avenue. I can walk up there and exercise," Mobley said.
City leaders said they began addressing food insecurity after government cuts to assistance programs.
"The cost of food was rising anyway in this country. Attacking SNAP forced us all to come together," Newark Mayor Ras Baraka said.
During the government shutdown last winter, emergency food hubs became a lifeline for many residents.
The mayor later moved to make the stores permanent. Community members quickly embraced the effort, and the new location will provide access to additional services beyond groceries.
"The grocery stores will also be an access point for folks to get social services. Why will we let you come through our doors knowing that you need a little help and not connect you to the resources that are available," said Khatim Sherrer, executive director of Clinton Hill Community Action.
The store offers fresh produce and other everyday necessities at prices that organizers say are 30% lower than those found in corner stores.
"But it's great because I'm telling you, I go to the corner store and buy stuff, and when I get the price of one canned good is $3 or something...plus their food is outdated," customer Vanessa Kousar said.
Officials will open community food stores in all five wards in Newark and the goal was to get it open by the start of school.
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