As demand for home grocery delivery continues to grow nationwide, rural residents in Modoc County face significant challenges due to limited options. Currently, the only grocery store offering pickup and delivery through a major app is Grocery Outlet in Alturas, which is accessible via DoorDash. This leaves residents with few alternatives for obtaining everyday essentials like milk, eggs, and butter, particularly for those with transportation issues or tight schedules.
In contrast to larger cities across Oregon and California, which benefit from a variety of app-based grocery services, Modoc County’s remote location and low population density have hindered the expansion of these platforms. Notably, services like Uber Eats do not support any grocery retailers in the area.
The absence of delivery infrastructure necessitates in-person shopping for even basic kitchen staples, which can be particularly challenging during winter months or adverse weather conditions, posing safety risks for some households.
However, this situation may present an opportunity for local residents. With Grocery Outlet already operational on DoorDash, there is potential for local drivers to join the platform and provide delivery services. This could offer individuals seeking flexible income or part-time work a chance to meet community needs while earning extra money.
The limited presence of DoorDash in Modoc County highlights the broader service gaps that rural areas experience in the digital economy. For the time being, many residents continue to rely on neighbors, family, and local solutions to fulfill their grocery needs.
