Mobile grocery store visits rural areas

A mobile grocery store named Roul'Contact, run by the Terre-Contact association, travels through the Hérault region in southern France, bringing quality food at affordable prices to local communities. The initiative, led by project coordinator Florence Cros, focuses on providing healthy and accessible food for all.

Two pricing options for each item

The store offers a range of fresh and dried products, some of which are organic or locally sourced. Each item has two pricing options—solidarity-based or standard—depending on the customer's income. For example, 1 kilo of locally grown chard can be purchased for either 2.30 euros or 0.84 euros.

Addressing food deserts in rural areas

The mobile grocery store visits six different communes twice a month, aiming to combat "food deserts" in rural areas where access to quality food is limited, especially for vulnerable populations. The Secours catholique, a Catholic charity, highlights that mobility challenges make it difficult for some people to access fresh food.

Additional community activities

In addition to selling food, the association sets up an "information point" at each stop, offering resources on rights, family violence prevention, and other social services. The initiative also includes cooking classes, children's activities, and well-being workshops, supported by a license for a mobile social life space from the Caisse d'allocations familiales.

Logistical and financial challenges

Despite support from local authorities, the Mutuelle sociale agricole, the State, and communes, the project faces challenges such as a limited budget and heavy logistics. The store relies on the Food Bank and local mass distribution to reduce food waste and sources products from local and organic suppliers, including local growers and the Biocoop.

Efforts to attract a broader audience

The association aims to involve families with more financial means by offering a variety of activities to attract a wider audience. However, creating a diverse customer mix remains difficult, as some people perceive the store as being for those in need. The store can only accommodate up to twelve people per stop, which is insufficient to meet the demand.

Positive impact on individuals

Despite these challenges, the initiative has helped many individuals, including Fanny, who feels more connected and supported, and Mairie-Claire, who has found social engagement and new relationships through the program.