As we watch the doors slowly close on our Monticello Winn-Dixie store, I want to say that I am truly sorry. I am sorry that we were unable to maintain this vibrant, full-service grocery store in our community and keep it from closing. My heart goes out to all the dedicated Associates who have been under stress, and to those who will be displaced.
My deepest long-term concern is for our elderly who cannot drive to Thomasville or Tallahassee, as well as those without reliable transportation. This is a loss of an essential service, not just a brand swap. These are the folks who will permanently be without their grocery store, especially during Hurricane Season and throughout the Holiday Season.
Our Winn-Dixie store faced three hurricanes, with a direct impact, in thirteen months, keeping our community stocked and prepared throughout. Discount stores are unable to handle such a high level of supply and demand. The store was open and well-stocked with supplies and hot meals for the utility linemen staged in Monticello before, during, and after the storms. We need to support these utilities and provide what they require.
I have questioned whether America’s elderly have become so irrelevant that corporations like ALDI don’t even consider them, or are they unaware of the significant economic power and influence our elderly have as consumers? Long-term, these individuals need a full-service grocery store with carts readily available, someone to bag their groceries, and load them into their car. Economically speaking, they are worth it. Many are fearful right now and need our assistance and creative ideas.
Where do we go from here? We start by recognizing the people, our Associates, who make our store more than just a place to buy groceries. We swing the doors of gratitude wide open and shower them with support, thank-you notes, expressions of gratitude, and care. If you have employment to offer, contact the store. Someone may simply need a hug or words of encouragement. Others will have greater needs. Don’t be afraid to ask. They appreciate your thoughtfulness.
To our Associates, we honor your dedication, loyalty, and friendship over the years as you have served our community through this essential service. You are far more than someone who stocks shelves, checks out groceries, runs carts, or works in the deli or the meat department. We see you. You brighten our day, make us feel connected, and carry the spirit of Monticello with every bag packed and question answered. You are part of Monticello’s story, and we thank you for the many ways that you make this place feel like home. You have left a mark that no closing sign can erase, and for that, we are grateful.
Tami Lester