"'They're like an invasive species,' one source said. 'They overpower all the resources and make the businesses in those neighborhoods vulnerable. That's where dollar stores can thrive. No matter what community, the cause of food deserts stem from one route, and that's economic disinvestment in vulnerable communities.' Wright's work, which , shows the approach of the nonprofit, Black-led national newsroom with local newsrooms in Atlanta and Gary, Indiana."
"The response to Wright's reporting, Ofori-Atta said, was "'yes. Oh my gosh. This is a thing that I always think about. My city has like eight Dollar Generals. Like what is up with that? I knew there was something up.' And to be able to bring clarity to something that we see and feel and understand and be able to bring that information that helps to connect the dots is something that's really important.""
Dollar stores have rapidly expanded in many Black communities, overwhelming local resources and leaving neighborhood businesses vulnerable. Economic disinvestment drives the emergence of food deserts and creates conditions where low-cost chain retailers can thrive. A Black-led national newsroom with local bureaus in Atlanta and Gary centers coverage that both reflects community experiences and provides insight into other Black communities' challenges. Audience responses include recognition and affirmation as residents connect local observations—such as numerous Dollar Generals—to broader structural patterns. Coverage has also linked neighborhood dynamics to larger issues like the climate crisis. The newsroom received recognition for diversity leadership in 2025.
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