Larson Announces Opening of The Grocery on Broad with Connecticut Foodshare and Forge City Works to Address Food Insecurity in Frog Hollow

Hartford, CT – Today, Rep. John B. Larson (CT-01), alongside Connecticut Foodshare and Forge City Works, announced the opening of The Grocery on Broad, aimed at increasing access to wholesome foods for people facing food insecurity in Hartford’s Frog Hollow neighborhood.

“I am thrilled to join Connecticut Foodshare, Forge City Works, and Frog Hollow residents this morning to officially open the Grocery on Broad,” said Larson. “Whether it be due to their ability to pay or access to reliable transportation, food insecurity is a reality for one in eight Connecticut residents. The Grocery on Broad will ensure fresh foods are available to Frog Hollow residents through an innovative ‘scaled pricing’ model that ensures all customers can purchase their necessities no matter their budget. I was proud to secure federal funding in Congress that was needed for the grocery to open its doors and serve as an example for other communities across the state and nation.” 

"Partnering with Forge City Works allows us to extend our reach through innovation and provide nutritious food to more people in need. The Grocery on Broad will play a vital role in our efforts to combat food insecurity,” said Jason Jakubowski, President & CEO of Connecticut Foodshare. 

"The Grocery on Broad reflects our dedication to addressing community challenges. We're proud to offer practical solutions that make a real difference in people's lives," said Ben Dubow, Executive Director of Forge City Works. 

"Our goal is to provide fresh, healthy food options and create a welcoming space for the community. We're excited to contribute to positive change in Hartford,” said Mayra Rivera, General Manager of The Grocery on Broad. 

In 2022, Larson announced $250,000 in new federal funding to support the opening of a neighborhood grocery to combat food insecurity will offer an income-based sliding scale pricing model, ensuring affordability for all residents.  

The Grocery on Broad, also supported with federal American Rescue Plan funds, will integrate with the Forge City Works job training program, providing valuable employment opportunities for disconnected youth aged 18-26.