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- calendar_today October 27, 2026
Introduction: A New Model for Food Assistance
The Parramore Market, a newly opened micro grocery store in Orlando, Florida’s Parramore neighborhood, is changing the way food assistance is provided in an area long considered a food desert. Instead of the traditional food pantry setup, the market offers residents the dignity of choice, letting them select their own groceries for free.
Innovative Approach Replaces Traditional Food Pantry
The Parramore Market was established by The Desire Foundation Inc., a nonprofit organization founded in 2020 and focused on food security in Orlando. The market replaces the foundation’s traditional food pantry, which previously distributed pre-packed food boxes. Founder Jennifer Desir Hilaire described the shift as a way to restore autonomy for those seeking food assistance. "Me making the decision on what goes in a box of food for you is really taking away your dignity,” Hilaire told News 6. “Every human being has the right to have access to it.”
Addressing Food Insecurity in a Noted Food Desert
Parramore has long faced the challenges of a food desert, with limited access to fresh, affordable food and everyday essentials. The market’s opening follows a year of planning and builds on the foundation’s prior initiative, Project 814, which distributed hundreds of thousands of pounds of food in the community. Through Parramore Market, the focus has shifted from charity-driven food distribution to addressing food insecurity with greater respect and choice for recipients.
Beyond Groceries: Community Resources and Support
Offering more than fresh produce and staples, the Parramore Market provides a variety of community resources. Residents can find everyday items such as laundry detergent, as well as access to a range of wraparound services. According to Hilaire, the market also features a clinic and computer lab, allowing visitors to receive medical checkups, work on resumes, or seek assistance with food stamps and healthcare programs like Medicare and Medicaid—all on site.
Collaborative Funding and Free Access
The Parramore Market is supported by a partnership of local organizations, including Interstruct Inc., Orange Blossom Trail Development, Mt. Calvary Baptist Church of Palm Coast, Orlando Magic Youth Foundation, OUC, Wholelife Church, the City of Orlando, and the Central Florida Foundation. Shopping at the market is free for all Central Florida residents. To access the services, residents need to register for a free Parramore Market card, which permits two visits to the market per month. Registration is available online through thedesirefoundationinc.org.
Looking Ahead: A Commitment to Orlando
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, Hilaire emphasized the foundation’s long-term commitment, stating, “We’re here to stay.” With the Parramore Market’s opening, the community now has a new resource that supports food access and offers dignity to those in need in Orlando, Florida, and the surrounding region.
Source: clickorlando.com.
