On Friday, we celebrated the expanded and newly christened Falcon Market, an inviting space that includes a free clothing boutique and food pantry that will provide reliable access to fresh food for thousands of Albany High students and their families.
Through the Market 32 Cares initiative, Market 32 and Price Chopper invested over $15,000 in the Falcon Market, donating and installing two industrial-grade refrigeration units and built-in shelving.
“This elevated pantry reflects what Market 32 and Price Chopper stand for: nourishing the neighborhoods we serve and supporting those who support one another,” said Blaine Bringhurst, President of Market 32 and Price Chopper.
The company's design and construction teams volunteered their time and expertise, and corporate and store teammates helped stock the new space with a full pallet of products donated by the company! Measuring approximately 1,135 square feet, the Falcon Market is now a one-stop-shop for students who need essential items such as nutritious food, personal care products, clothing and outerwear.
“These amazing donations from Market 32 and Price Chopper will significantly increase our school’s ongoing efforts to fill in the gaps for students and families in need,” said Albany High Principal Jodi Commerford. “We are so fortunate to have this additional community support for our Falcon Market, which will allow us to do even more to address food insecurity, one of the most challenging obstacles any family can face.”
At the ribbon-cutting ceremony, we also celebrated our ongoing partnerships with Albany Fund for Education and the Regional Food Bank of Northeastern New York. Their faithful collaboration ensures our shelves are regularly stocked with food that meets the needs of our diverse student population.
The Falcon Market is a completely free resource open to Albany High students and their families.
Enjoy these photos of Friday's ribbon-cutting ceremony and the construction process in the weeks leading up to the unveiling of this beautiful new space.