The Mercado is a landmark marketplace and community hub, as well as the realization of Esperanza's mission to achieve comprehensive community development to build power, self-sufficiency, and sustained economic development in South Los Angeles. In 2001, Esperanza opened the Mercado La Paloma (Mercado) which introduced a sustainable, place-based economic development project into South Central Los Angeles, showcasing the wealth of cultural entrepreneurship through artistic and culinary creativity, while also creating a neighborhood gathering place for the community. The Mercado is a landmark marketplace and community hub in the region and the realization of Esperanza’s mission to achieve comprehensive community development to build power, self-sufficiency, and sustained economic development in a South Los Angeles neighborhood that has experienced historic, systemic disinvestment. By engaging all community members in economic revitalization activities, art and cultural activities and educational campaigns, Mercado serves as a place that helps improve public health, enriches the region’s food environment, creates jobs, and revitalizes the neighborhoods around the Mercado.
