Following the permanent closure of the Shoals Jay C Food Store on July 31, community members are stepping up to fill the gap in food access. With concerns growing over transportation and food availability, especially for those without reliable means to travel, local business owners Todd and Blair Baker, of Bomac’s Drive-In, are launching the Shoals Grocery Grab, a weekly mobile market aimed at providing residents with essential groceries. The Grocery Grab will be held once a week in the Bomac’s parking lot for a 3-hour window as part of a 90-day pilot program. The effort brings together local vendors to supply staples like meat, eggs, dairy, and produce. Organizers also hope to introduce an online ordering system in the coming weeks, allowing customers to place orders in advance for easy pickup, and potentially delivery for those with transportation challenges. Community support for the initiative has been overwhelmingly positive, with help pouring in from organizations such as the Martin County Alliance, the Shoals Historic River District, and the IU Kelley School of Business. The Bakers are using the Bomac’s Drive-In Facebook page to share updates, including weekly hours for the Grocery Grab. Feedback and community suggestions are encouraged, and a recommendation board will be available on-site for shoppers to request specific items or offer ideas. While the Grocery Grab addresses the immediate need, organizers say this is just the first phase. The long-term goal is to create a sustainable, permanent food resource in Shoals. For updates or to offer support, visit the Bomac’s Drive-In Facebook page.
