My home city of Rock Island, IL has been waiting for an economic boost and a solution to the food desert problem that we've been facing. The perfect opportunity arose when a massive brown space was cleared on 11th ST for a Super Walmart. However, in 2016, Walmart backed out of the proposal and left us with nothing but empty land.

Meijer Stores have shown their commitment to building on brown spaces - areas previously used for commercial or industrial purposes. This makes our city's vacant lot an ideal location for them. Not only would this bring much-needed jobs and economic growth to Rock Island, it would also provide residents with access to fresh food and other necessities currently lacking in our area.

According to USDA data, approximately 23.5 million people live in food deserts across the U.S., many of whom reside right here in Rock Island (USDA Economic Research Service). Additionally, research shows that new supermarkets in food deserts can lead up to a 32% increase in produce consumption among locals (American Journal of Preventive Medicine).

By opening a store here, Meijer can help alleviate these issues while expanding their business into an eager market ready for change.

Let's urge Meijer Stores not just to consider but act upon this opportunity - one that benefits both them as a company and us as residents of Rock Island and the entire Quad-City metropolitan area.

Please sign this petition today!

Added 1/1/2024:

Again, this petition was not initiated simply because I want to shop at Meijer (although, if you've never been to one, you are missing out), but rather may motivation came from reading the Meijer business practices and values. Some facts:
Meijer partners with agencies like HRC, NAACP, Urban League, Disability Equality, PRIDE, Special Olympics. to promote diversity and inclusion
Meijer is a leader in buildings stores with environmental and energy-efficient design with sustainability goals that divert waste from landfills, using only recyclable packaging for their store brand products, reducing carbon emissions by 50% in 2024 and reducing food waste by 70% in 2025.
Meijer purchases products from local farmers and vendors to fill their shelves.
Meijer received a 100% equality index score from Human Rights Campaign who named it a BEST Workplace for LGBTQ people.
Meijer promises to compete with effective and consumer-centered values in the marketplace.
The petition has less than 100 signatures right now that's just not going to cut it. Please share this post with everyone you now and let's get that eyesore property on 11th ST revitalized!