SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- The LaSalle Park Neighborhood Alliance Association announced it will host a community forum regarding the Kroger closure and the legacy of redlining on July 8 at 6:30 p.m. at the Charles Black Community Center.

Organizers say they will discuss the recent closure of Kroger and the broader impact of redlining and historic disinvestment on the built environment of the LaSalle Park neighborhood.

The goal of the forum is to bring together residents, local leaders, media, and advocates to examine how decades of discriminatory policies and neglect have shaped the community’s access to basic needs, the organizers said. They say this includes fresh food, healthcare, housing, and economic opportunity.

The key themes of the event are said to include the connection between the grocery store closure and historic redlining, food apartheid and unequal access to essential resources, and visions for equitable reinvestment and sustainable development in LaSalle Park.

All residents of South Bend are invited to attend.

Local leaders have also weighed in on the Kroger closure, including Sixth District South Bend Common Council Member Sheila Niezgodski.

“For many residents on the West Side, especially those without reliable vehicles, this Kroger was within walking distance or a short bus ride,” said Councilwoman Niezgodski.”

She, along with the city administration, has sent a letter to Kroger requesting a meeting to discuss the future of the building and how South Bend can support its adaptive re-use for residents.

“For many—especially seniors and families without transportation—this location was within walking distance or a short bus ride,” said Councilwoman Niezgodski in a joint statement with the common council. “Its loss will have a tremendous impact.”

Indiana State Senator David Niezgodski (D-South Bend) released the following statement: 

"I am deeply disappointed by the decision to close the Kroger on Western Avenue, a store represented by UFCW Local 700. This location has long been a cornerstone of our community, providing essential jobs to many South Bend residents."

Sen. Niezgodski announced he has also reached out to the mayor’s office to begin working on solutions to support impacted workers and help ensure they have opportunities to transition into new employment.