She Strengthens

Community Lifelines: The Unwavering Spirit of NYC’s Bodegas

As the COVID-19 pandemic continues to ravage major cities worldwide, New York City’s bodegas have emerged as beacons of hope and normalcy. These small, family-owned stores have adapted to the new challenges, offering more than just essential items to their communities.

A Childhood Staple

Growing up in Queens, I have fond memories of hanging out by the sidewalk of my local corner store. The bodegeros and deli owners, who I’ve known since childhood, remind me of the diverse reality of many immigrant families. Their stores, filled with Caribbean, Polish, and Middle Eastern treats, calling cards, and soda cans, have become an integral part of my upbringing.

A New Era of Support

Now, as the pandemic has forced many to rely on these small stores for food and necessities, they have become emotional lifelines for me and many others. The few times I venture out during daylight hours, I cherish the opportunity to interact with someone outside my family circle. I’m not alone in this experience, and I set out to explore how bodegas have reimagined their role in supporting their communities.

Amir Deli and Grocery: A Testament to Resilience

I visited Amir Deli and Grocery in Ridgewood, Queens, to talk to employee Rachid Naje about the changes he’s seen in recent months. Behind the counter, Naje works alone, wearing a mask and gloves, as the door remains open for ventilation. The once-thriving store now feels eerily quiet, with customers hurrying in and out, maintaining a safe distance. Despite the challenges, Naje remains optimistic, having worked in stores and restaurants for years. He’s confident that business will pick up, just as it has after previous setbacks.

Trips to the Bodega: A Familiar Comfort

Ivelise Mogena, a Dominican-American case manager from the South Bronx, shared her perspective on the importance of bodegas during this pandemic. For many, trips to the corner store have become a way to maintain normalcy and soothe the uncertainty of these times. As a social worker, Mogena has seen how essential these stores have become, providing staples like milk, eggs, and bread, especially for those who cannot wait in long lines at supermarkets.

L Gourmet Deli: A Cornerstone of Community

Amer Alihe, owner of L Gourmet Deli in East Williamsburg, has taken his store’s role as a community cornerstone to heart. Despite losing 30 percent of his regular business, Alihe remains hopeful, focusing on the needs of his community. He’s adapted by offering deliveries for older customers and allowing longtime customers to pay late. By prioritizing community support, Alihe believes his business will survive and thrive.

The Unwavering Spirit of NYC’s Bodegas

As the pandemic continues to evolve, NYC’s bodegas have proven to be more than just convenient stores. They’ve become emotional lifelines, offering a sense of normalcy and community support. Through their resilience and adaptability, these small businesses have shown that even in the darkest times, there is always hope.