In Texas, and across the United States, rapidly densifying cities are forcing millions of families to overcome significant pain points just to get the good food that everyone needs (and deserves). And current market offerings are not designed to satisfy demand.

To counter the problem, small-format markets and grocery delivery services have begun popping up across the state, including Houston, where Little Red Box Grocery (LRB) launched in May 2022. The new small-format store is strategically located in the historic Second Ward located in the heart of East End Houston. Owner Samuel Newman opened this 800 sq-ft retail location as a ‘third place’ for the neighborhood. “We wanted to build a store for everyone. A true gathering spot for Second Ward residents, and a counterpoint to current neighborhood grocery offerings that are either inconvenient and/or offer high cost/poor choice, specifically when it comes to fresh produce and pantry essentials,” said Samuel Newman.

Newman comes to this work after more than a decade in the food business – studying SNAP/WIC households for Texas grocery chain H-E-B, and most recently as executive director for the Houston-based nonprofit Brighter Bites.

A month after its launch, LRB began accepting SNAP/EBT (food stamps). So far, it has received Healthy Food Financing Initiative funding from both Harris County and the Reinvestment Fund, two initiatives (one local in scope, one national) with the goal of improving access to healthy foods in underserved areas.

LRB has also garnered significant community support, working with partners such as the American Heart Association and New Hope Housing to build awareness of the store and to improve product and service offerings. “The American Heart Association is a relentless force for a world of longer, healthier lives. We are honored to collaborate with Little Red Box for expansion of a healthier food system, and to see SNAP benefits accepted as part of their business model,” said Mel Edwards, SVP American Heart Association Greater Houston Gulf Coast.

Owner Samuel Newman invites the community to visit LRB at 3401 Harrisburg Blvd Suite G, Houston, TX 77003. Visit their website at littleredboxgrocery.com