Louisville charity stepping in to help customers of closed Kroger store

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- A sudden grocery store closure in Louisville's Wilder Park neighborhood left some residents without easy access to everyday essentials, but a local organization is stepping in to help.

The Kroger store on South 3rd Street near Churchill Downs officially closed over the weekend, one of 60 across the country.

"They sold out of stuff before they even closed," said Alyssa Avery, who lives just a block from the store. "It surprised me."

Avery said she's now forced to travel farther to buy basic items like milk — a task made more difficult without a car.

"Now, I have to get a ride to the other Kroger, walk or get an Uber," she said. "It's not convenient for me."

While another Kroger is located less than 1 mile away, some nearby residents said the walk — which includes crossing a large parking lot and navigating busy streets — is too dangerous, especially for those with children or limited mobility.

"It's really hard on a lot of people to get to that Kroger if you don't drive," said Metro Councilwoman Betsy Ruhe, who represents District 21.

In response, Ruhe is partnering with South Louisville Community Ministries and Kroger to offer help. Together, they're distributing 250 free Kroger Boost memberships to former shoppers of the closed store. The program waives the $95 annual fee and offers free home delivery on orders over $35.

"It'll be easier with the kids," Avery said. "So I won't have to drag them down there."

Eligibility for the program will be based on factors like income, age and access to transportation. South Louisville Community Ministries will also assist residents with signing up.

"They are very busy, and we are fortunate that they have stepped forward to help us out," Ruhe said.

The South 3rd Street Kroger building remains owned by the company, but there's no word yet on what will replace it.