By restoring and expanding Debs Store with partners Lift Jax, Goodwill and VyStar, we are addressing food insecurity and improving families’ financial security at this strategic and historically important spot, right in the center of Eastside, Jacksonville.
Project Highlights
We’re Restoring and building on to the existing historic building at 1478 Florida Avenue. It is an iconic Eastside structure built in 1913 and operated as Debs Store for 90 years. The new structure expands from it’s original footprint of 1200 square feet to 4600 square feet of community-centric space.
Completing the bottom floor of the complex will allow us to reintroduce fresh foods into the area through a not-for-profit neighborhood market employing Eastside residents. The space uses as many of the original shelving and display structures as possible, keeping an authentic, memorable atmosphere.
Completing the top floor of the complex creates a flexible community center for education and connection. This allows the introduction of best-in-class workforce development and career training services, provide by Goodwill for those seeking employment.
Making everyone feel welcome is a priority. With additional square footage, we’re able to create a welcoming space where community leaders can address residents’ needs.
Construction progress photos
Reopening in Spring, 2024
89%
of residents surveyed said they would be supportive of a market at the Debs Store location.
67%
of residents said they would use services to help with job assistance and career counceling.
70%
of residents said they would seek services to help with financial management.
Our Partners and Sponsors
