BODEGA Act introduced to enhance safety for NYC’s cornerstone businesses

In New York City, bodegas are more like cornerstones than corner stores to their community.

Last month, U.S. Rep. Ritchie Torres introduced the BODEGA Act, aimed at supporting bodega workers across the country by providing improved surveillance equipment in an effort to help reduce violent crime.

With an estimated 13,000 bodegas scattered across the five boroughs, this act recognizes how integral these businesses are to their neighborhoods, serving as both economic drivers and community anchors. 

While the definition of bodega versus corner store versus deli can vary — hot meals, resident cat, historically Spanish-speaking neighborhood, to name a few — gentrification and recent pandemic-induced closures have blurred these distinctions, making them practically interchangeable. 

The word “bodega” comes from the Spanish term for a wine room or storehouse. In earlier days, these establishments were essentially liquor stores where people would gather to drink and socialize. Over time, this has evolved into the modern conception of one-stop shops, catering to virtually every need a neighborhood might have at any time of day or night. 

A 2020 city survey found, in some neighborhoods, bodegas account for more than 80 percent of residents’ food purchases. Beyond simply providing affordable access to goods, bodegas also indirectly boost the property value of the neighborhoods they inhabit. The constant presence of bodega owners and patrons creates an “eyes on the street” scenario, naturally deterring criminal activity, and in turn, saving taxpayer dollars by reducing the need for extensive police intervention.

Similarly, bodega workers often serve as first responders in emergencies, sometimes preventing situations from escalating further and reducing costly emergency responses.

One bodega set to benefit from Torres’ new initiative is the Greenland Farm Deli Mart on Riverdale Avenue, which recently reopened after an extensive expansion. Its most notable upgrade is the addition of a full-service deli counter, where customers can now enjoy a variety of breakfast items like bacon, sausage, black pudding, white pudding and waffles, as well as classic sandwiches.

Complementing this is a new breakfast station that serves hot and cold coffee, muffins and a wide selection of other products.

The store also now carries a broader range of non-food grocery items, including pet food and laundry supplies. 

So far, the community response has been exceedingly positive. On the first day back, the store saw a significant turnout, thanks in part to a promotional giveaway of more than 700 free sandwiches throughout the day. This gesture not only drew a crowd but also encouraged many first-time customers to return, according to manager Sammy Shami.

“I didn’t expect it would be this [popular]” Shami said, “but it’s been very nice.”

The Greenland Farm Deli Mart is owned by the Greenland family, who have been in the business for 40 years and are expanding their deli offerings through the franchise. With 15 years of experience in the company, though only one year at this particular location, Shami has navigated the store through its changes to ensure a smooth reopening. Shami’s rapport with the community is evident — customers greet him warmly and by name. 

Soon, the deli will introduce delivery services through Uber Eats, GrubHub and other popular platforms. Additionally, the store is expected to obtain a license to sell beer within the next month.

For now, Shami said, smoothies, protein shakes, fresh juices and salads are among the most popular items. For those seeking recommendations, Sammy offered #20 on the menu, a smoothie named after him.