In episode 49 we spoke with Rev. Carl Johnson, the founder of Storehouse Grocers. He has a goal to end food insecurity around the US and has made the Daytons Bluff neighborhood in St. Paul his current focus. Carl shared how it all started with just a few volunteers, what the realities of hunger looks like in St. Paul, and why he decided to create a grocery store that is affordable and easily accessible to all. Carl also shared about the many other ways he is helping curb hunger in the neighborhood such as serving free hot meals and more. Carl has a magnetic personality and will inspire you to find ways to fight hunger in your own local community as well.
Bio: Rev. Carl Johnson moved to the Twin Cities in fall of 2016. He made connections in the neighborhood by volunteering in Dayton’s Bluff Elementary school and recruiting volunteers to serve Dayton’s Bluff Elementary and Recreation Center in various capacities. He also started a community garden at no cost to the recreation center for teaching neighborhood kids how to grow vegetables. Reverend Johnson primary motivation was to end everyday hunger. Rev Johnson has held neighborhood specific block parties and seasonal events to uplift the neighborhood.
Carl has a mission to abolish food insecurity in major cities starting with St.paul believing that race and economic justice are tied to food. Carl’s extensive knowledge of black culture and structures of identities in the black community has propelled his work with racial injustice. Carl often engages in circles and individuals cross-culturally to see communities work in unity.