Feeding the Heart of the Delta

Feeding each other is part of how we heal. Every town has a heartbeat; ours hums past the produce bins and the meat counter. Before the hardest news hit our town, I sat with Anthony Morris, manager at Leland’s Stop & Shop, to talk names, farmers, budgets—and the quiet ways a grocery holds a community together.

Stepping Into Big Shoes

Welcome to Leland! How does it feel stepping into a role that’s been so beloved in the community?

It’s an honor and a privilege. I know how much this store means to the people of Leland, and stepping into this role comes with a deep sense of responsibility. My goal is to carry forward the trust and relationships that have been built here, while making sure our store continues to be a place people are proud of.

How are you planning to keep that hometown feel while bringing your own touch to the market?

I believe the “hometown feel” comes from knowing people by name, listening to their needs and supporting local whenever possible. I’ll keep that going, while also looking for fresh ideas, new products and ways to make the shopping experience even better.

Feeding the Heart of the Delta

What role do you see the store play in the health and well-being of the community?

We’re more than a place to buy groceries — we’re part of how families put healthy meals on the table. By offering fresh produce, quality meats and wholesome options, we help make healthier choices easier and more affordable.

Are there plans to expand or adjust what’s offered—especially fresh produce, local goods or seasonal items?

Absolutely. I’d like to feature more locally-grown produce and products that reflect the flavors of our region. Seasonal items will continue to be a focus, so we can keep things fresh and exciting for our customers.

How do you plan to connect with local farmers, vendors or families who rely on this market?

Building personal relationships is key. I want to meet with local farmers and small vendors to see how we can partner. When we support each other, the whole community benefits.

Community, Not Just Commerce

Have you had any memorable conversations with customers already?

Yes — even in these early days, customers have shared personal stories about the store and how much it’s a part of their lives. Those moments remind me why this work matters so much.

What does “community” mean to you in the context of a grocery store?

It means being more than a business — it’s about relationships, trust and being there for each other. A grocery store should feel like a gathering place where people feel welcome and cared for.

How do you hope the market can support families, especially as prices rise on staples?

I want to focus on keeping prices fair, offering good weekly deals and making sure families can get what they need without breaking their budget. We’ll look for creative ways to stretch a dollar while keeping quality high.

Leland’s Future on the Shelves

What are your hopes for the store in the next year or two?

I’d like to see us grow our customer base, strengthen relationships with local suppliers and continue to be known as a place where service and quality come first.

What would you like Leland residents to know about you?

I was born and raised here in the Mississippi Delta, and I care deeply about this community – and want to be able to give back to the community that has provided so much to me. I’m not just here to manage a store — I’m here to listen, learn and make sure we meet the needs of the people who walk through our doors every day.

If you could pick one item on the shelves that represents your own heart or roots, what would it be—and why?

A perfectly cut ribeye steak. It’s hearty, full of quality, and best enjoyed when shared with family and friends. To me, it represents the pride we take in offering the best fresh meat in the Delta, the importance of gathering around the table, and the value of giving our community something truly worth appreciating.

When we support each other, the whole community benefits. Groceries are more than goods; they’re a promise—of neighbors, of supper, of one more ordinary day together. We’ll keep that promise, one cart and one pie at a time.