Addressing longstanding food insecurity in a designated urban food desert, Mercer Street Friends, HomeFront, and the Trenton Health Team officially celebrated the grand opening of The 222: Community Market and Resource Hub with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on Sept. 24.
Located at 222 North Hermitage Avenue, the newly renovated facility brings a dignified, grocery-store-style marketplace and holistic social services directly to residents of Trenton’s West Ward.
Tackling food insecurity in the West Ward
Because the West Ward has long lacked an adequate number of full-service supermarkets, local residents have traditionally had to rely on corner markets and convenience stores with limited fresh produce, or travel at least two miles outside the city limits.
The 222 changes that landscape by offering:
- A Full-Choice Pantry: A familiar, dignified shopping experience where fresh fruits and vegetables, shelf-stable goods, frozen meats, dairy, and eggs are provided completely free of charge.
- Holistic Support Services: Beyond nutrition, visitors can access essential family items like diapers and hygiene products, alongside direct connections to housing stability resources and parenting support.
Community and state leadership
The collaborative project was made possible through funding and partnerships involving the New Jersey Economic Development Authority’s (NJEDA) FEED NJ program, Mercer County, and local nonprofit coalitions.
“By placing fresh food, essential resources and support in one location within reach, we are helping create a stronger, healthier West Ward,” Randall West, CEO of Mercer Street Friends, said. “No one should have to choose between putting food on the table and meeting other basic needs.”
Tara Colton, Chief Economic Security Officer for the NJEDA, emphasized the importance of the initiative.
“Through Governor Sherrill’s $30 million FEED NJ program, the NJEDA is investing in innovative, community-driven initiatives to strengthen food security throughout New Jersey,” Colton said.
Mercer County Executive Dan Benson added that the county was proud to invest in a project addressing fundamental health and nutrition needs. Leaders from HomeFront and the Trenton Health Team echoed these sentiments, noting that families navigating multiple challenges—such as housing instability or employment hurdles—can now find trusted, comprehensive assistance under one roof.
