WIMAUMA, Fla. — A new free service is being offered at Beth-El Farmworker Ministry in Wimauma.

The Client Choice Food Market recently opened to support families during a time where immigration policies are changing.

What You Need To Know

  • Beth-El Farmworker Ministry opened its Client Choice Food Market in Wimauma

  • The market is open by appointment only in 30-minute increments

  • This allows for families who might not be able to make their weekly food distribution on Wednesdays

Beth-El Farmworker Ministry feels like a second home to Esperanza Mendez.

It’s a place she’s relied on for many years, and now she’s receiving help through a new resource — the Client Choice Food Market.

Either over the phone or online, residents can schedule a 30-minute shopping experience.

“We need money to purchase groceries and it's difficult for me, because my health isn’t great,” said Mendez.

At the Food Market, she’s able to pick and choose which food options are best for her.

“I get very few food stamps and this is a big help,” Mendez said.

Officials with Beth-El Farmworker Ministry say this is another resource on top of the food distribution they have each week.

Executive Director Teresita Matos-Post says the market opened because of concerns from the community regarding immigration policies.

"They’re relying on their neighbors and friends to be able to get the resources that they need, so this is another opportunity for them to plan better their outings," Matos-Post said.

The Client Choice Food Market is also aimed at helping those who may not have transportation and seniors in the community.

“Right now, hard-working people cannot afford to miss work to come to the food pantry, so this allows other times for them to schedule time to come and pick the groceries that the families need,” Matos-Post said.

The Client Choice Food Market is run by volunteers who help guide clients through the process of shopping for their groceries.