“Mom’s Organic Market” opens on UDC’s Van Ness campus
The long-awaited wait for this grocery store is over, as on April 4th, 2025, Mom’s right on the University of the District of Columbia campus opened to the public. Many UDC students and members of the Van Ness community alike were concerned that this day would never come.
“They’ve been working on it [Mom’s] for years, I can’t believe it,” said UDCTV Producer and Internship supervisor Danilo Ikenberry about the grocery store opening. Ikeberry was right about that store taking years to open, as it had been announced to be on its way since 2021, according to “Popville,” a publication based in Petworth, Washington, D.C. UDC’s Rachel Perrone who’s quote was used in this article said: “It’s been a long time coming but it’s here it’s finally here! Did a quick loop, got a free croissant, will be back later with my list and my tote.” During the grand opening day, there were items available in the organic market, along with music and other activities.
When asked about its grand opening, UDC Digital Media major Isaiah King said, “Yeah, they gave away ginger snaps, fruits, and vegetables, but I just wish things in there weren’t so expensive.” He was not the only one with complaints. Both students and staff of UDC have complained about the lack of convenient items available, and the high prices make it hard to shop there.
“Although Mom’s opened on UDC’s campus, the prices are targeting the upscale Van Ness community, not UDC students,” said Randi Payton, a Professor in the Digital Media program at UDC. Another Digital Media student, John Wildeman, said, “It’s nice in there, but my problem is that there are not enough available food options to purchase and eat quickly.
Regardless, as a new store connected to a university, it will be interesting to see how the opinions evolve and fluctuate for both the students/staff of UDC, along with the surrounding community. Mom’s Organic Market is located at 4250 Connecticut Ave NW. If you’re a UDC student or staff, swing over to Building 71 on the 1st floor to find it.
