Kansas City, August 18, 2025
Community Builders Kansas City
Community Builders Kansas City is a community-focused organization established to improve resources and quality of life in Kansas City’s East Side. Founded with the goal of revitalizing underserved areas, it took responsibility for operating Sun Fresh Market after the city’s $17 million investment in 2016 to acquire and rejuvenate the Linwood Shopping Center, where Sun Fresh opened in 2018. Despite the initial efforts, the store faced challenges such as crime and management issues, leading to its closure. The organization has received partial funding—only $750,000 out of the initial $1.2 million—highlighting funding and systemic issues. Community Builders KC continues to work with local residents and city officials to address community needs and find sustainable solutions.
News Summary
The closure of Sun Fresh Market on East 31st Street has sparked significant concerns among Kansas City residents regarding city investments and food access. After a $17 million investment to revitalize the Linwood Shopping Center, the market struggled with management issues and high crime rates, leading to its shutdown. Community Builders Kansas City reportedly received far less funding than promised, exacerbating the situation. Local leaders are now seeking solutions to improve the area and enhance food resources for residents.
Kansas City – The closure of the Sun Fresh Market located at East 31st Street and Prospect Avenue has raised significant concerns among residents regarding the management and handling of city investments in the area. This grocery store was deemed a crucial provider of fresh food in a community already facing limited access to healthy food options.
The city of Kansas City invested approximately $17 million in 2016 to purchase and revitalize the Linwood Shopping Center, where Sun Fresh opened its doors in 2018. The responsibility for the store’s operation fell to Community Builders Kansas City, an organization aimed at improving community resources.
Local residents have expressed concern over the various issues that led to the closure, blaming crime in the vicinity, poor management, and inadequate services for unhoused or mentally ill individuals. An emergency video conference involving city and community leaders was convened to address the situation, but it resulted in a lack of consensus regarding the next steps.
Despite the substantial investment, the funding received by Community Builders Kansas City has amounted to only $750,000, significantly less than the $1.2 million that the city council had initially allocated. Problems during the store’s operation included persistent struggles with stocking shelves and a rise in crime incidents, which created a discouraging shopping environment for potential customers.
Residents and former employees of Sun Fresh have shared their disappointment, stressing the grocery store’s importance as a resource within the community. The area has confronted ongoing issues with crime, including shoplifting and drug use, making it increasingly challenging for the store to succeed.
Additionally, underlying concerns surrounding systemic issues such as gerrymandering and redlining have been highlighted, as these factors contribute to the historical disinvestment in East Side communities. Although city and community leaders remain dedicated to resolving current problems, they acknowledge the complexity of their relationship with Community Builders.
While there are other grocery options nearby, such as Aldi and Happy Food Center, residents do not perceive them as viable substitutes for the specific needs of their neighborhood. Community organizations and city officials aim to maintain open lines of communication to address the ongoing situation effectively.
Despite the setback of the Sun Fresh closure, there are positive developments in the area, notably the Ethnic Enrichment Festival and other accessible resources that serve local residents. Nevertheless, experts underline that the challenges faced by the community are deeply rooted and will necessitate sustained efforts and time for resolution.
Summary of Key Points
- Sun Fresh Market has closed, impacting fresh food access on Kansas City’s East Side.
- City invested $17 million to revitalize the Linwood Shopping Center in 2016.
- Community Builders Kansas City has not received the full funding initially allocated.
- Crime and management issues are cited as significant reasons for the store’s failure.
Future Steps
Community organizations and city officials are committed to finding solutions and addressing ongoing issues facing the East Side. Continuous dialogue will be essential as they work to revitalize the area and provide better resources for residents.
Frequently Asked Questions
What led to the closing of Sun Fresh Market?
The closure of Sun Fresh Market was attributed to various factors, including high crime rates, management issues, and lack of services for vulnerable populations in the area.
How much did the city invest in the Linwood Shopping Center?
The city invested approximately $17 million in 2016 for the acquisition and revitalization of the Linwood Shopping Center.
Are there other grocery options available in the area?
Yes, other grocery stores such as Aldi and Happy Food Center are nearby, but residents do not consider them adequate substitutes for the needs of the community.
Chart of Key Features
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Investment Amount | $17 million city investment in Linwood Shopping Center |
| Closure Reason | Crime, management issues, inadequate services |
| Community Sentiment | Disappointment over grocery access |
| Funding Received | $750,000 out of the $1.2 million initially allocated |
| Alternative Stores | Aldi, Happy Food Center (not sufficient substitutes) |
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Additional Resources
- KSHB: KCMO Leaders Speak Out on Sun Fresh Closure
- Kansas City Star: Grocery Store Openings and Closings
- Kansas City Star: Local News on Grocery Store Challenges
- Washington Post: City-Owned Grocery Store Funding Challenges
- Wikipedia: Food Desert
- Google Search: Groceries in Kansas City
Author: STAFF HERE KANSAS CITY WRITER
The KANSAS CITY STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREKansasCity.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Kansas City, Jackson County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as American Royal World Series of Barbecue, Dia De Los Muertos, and Planet Anime Kansas City. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Kansas City Chamber of Commerce and United Way of Greater Kansas City, plus leading businesses in healthcare, finance, and entertainment that power the local economy such as Children's Mercy Hospital, Government Employees Health Association, and AMC Entertainment. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREStLouis.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Missouri's dynamic landscape.
