WARREN — Trumbull Neighborhood Partnership teamed with Lit’l Mac Food Store, 1763 Parkman Road NW, to host a community event Friday to promote healthy eating and increased access to fresh produce.

The event featured a cooking demonstration, live music from DJ Christopher F, free food made by the store owner Mike Aleker and served by his family, and giveaways.

TNP’s Healthy Community Store Initiative, which has supported more than 15 local stores over the past seven years, works to bridge the gap in food deserts — areas where grocery stores are more than half a mile away.

In Warren, where many neighborhoods lack easy access to fresh produce, corner stores like Lit’l Mac are becoming vital community assets.

“When locally owned corner stores offer healthier options, it strengthens community connections,” said Lydia Lynch, TNP’s health and wellness coordinator. “Stores like Lit’l Mac’s are reshaping the perception of corner stores and establishing themselves as consistent sources for healthy food.”

The event highlighted Lit’l Mac’s fresh produce, sourced from White House Fruit Farm in Canfield, including strawberries, peaches, onions and tomatoes.

Aleker said the store’s efforts to provide healthier options, including freshly baked bread and cookies, are prepared on-site.

“We’re trying to introduce healthy snacks, healthy food for kids,” Aleker said. “When they see bananas or fresh produce, they’ll want to try it.”

TNP supports stores like Lit’l Mac by initially funding produce purchases and providing refrigeration or storage solutions to help them transition to selling fresh items sustainably. The goal is for stores to become self-sufficient, with community demand driving ongoing sales. Currently, four stores in the program, including Gas Smart and Smart Mart, consistently offer produce.

Residents like Kathleen Baugh, a First Ward resident, talked about the challenges of living in a food desert. Since the closure of the nearby Parkman Road Sparkle Market earlier this summer, Baugh now travels to Giant Eagle on Mahoning Avenue or Elm Road, often struggling to find familiar brands.

“It’s inconvenient,” she said. “Traveling far for food is tough, so this is a good idea. For those without cars, like many in the area, local options are critical.”

Councilwoman Helen Rucker, D-at Large, praised the event for addressing the loss of accessible grocery options, which is exacerbated by the end of local bus services.

“These owners do real outreach to the community,” she said.

The Warren City Health District’s Wellness on Wheels truck also attended, reinforcing the focus on health and community engagement.

The event’s cooking demonstration aimed to make healthy eating approachable, showing attendees how to prepare simple dishes like roasted corn and peppers.

“It doesn’t have to be complicated or expensive,” Lynch said. “We’re just trying to make healthier choices seem easy.”