I visited JP Center/ South Main Streets on Feb/23/2022.
JP areas are difficult for business owners to manage their jobs. That is because minimum wage and rent are more expensive compared with other areas in Boston. Therefore, it is effective that small shops in JP help each other shop to purchase something from neighbor stores, or local food. For instance, the blue frog, the bakery shop, makes stuff made from chocolate, coffee from local areas. In addition, I learned some activities are helpful for local people. One example is some companies sell organic products, which helps local people to maintain their health. Another example is that they do not make parking spaces on purpose. Thanks to it, more and more people do not use their car, which reduces traffic issues. Besides, Boing! “toy shop” provides a delivery service, which is very helpful for those who are so busy, such as parents.
The most interesting thing about this trip is the community refuge. In this refuge, there is stuff that some people no longer need. And then, people who need this stuff can acquire it freely, which reduces food scraps. In addition, since this refuge is installed off the main road, people, who do not want to recognize that they face food insecurity, can get food without uncomfortable feeling.