COLUMBUS, Ohio — Most likely if you frequent the All People's Fresh Market on Parsons Ave on Columbus' south side, you've met Clara Bradley. 

What You Need To Know

  • The All People's Fresh Market is a partnership with Mid-Ohio Food Collective

  • Clara Bradley started volunteering at the market nine years ago

  • Jess Grady is the Healthy Eating and Living Director at Community Development for All People

  • Grady said there are more than 350 families who come through the pantry each day

Bradley, 76, started volunteering at the market nine years ago after retiring from Mt Carmel Health after 24 years of working in linen services. 

The mother of two said she just wants to continue to give back to the community because she can still remember the feeling of being new in town when she immigrated to Columbus from her native Philippines nearly 50 years ago. 

“I feel better to help people, you know. I remember before, when I was struggling, I didn't have no help," Bradley said. "I could not go anywhere. I don't know anybody here in the states. Now it's time I'm going to help."

The All People's Fresh Market is a partnership with Mid-Ohio Food Collective. 

Jess Grady is the Healthy Eating and Living Director at Community Development for All People. 

She said there are more than 350 families who come through the pantry each day and it's not only for nutrition but an education as well. 

“It's not just about food, it's about healthy food as medicine, and it's really rewarding seeing people making progress on their health goals," Grady said. "Right now we're doing our annual survey, and I love reading the responses because they talk about how the market has helped them cut out junk food, lose weight, get their kids to start eating vegetables early in life."

Bradley continues to work five days a week as one of the dozen volunteers at All People's Fresh Market. 

She says in these challenging times, it just takes a little heart and pride in your community. 

“I'm not rich. You don't have to be rich to help people, you don't. To be honest and kindly, that's what we need,” saidBradley. 

All People's Fresh Market is at 945 Parsons Avenue on Columbus' south side. 

The market requires a license or ID, and proof of income is not required.