When Hurricane Ike struck the Houston area in 2009, few businesses around Oak Ridge North had power. David Hodge, owner of Hodge's Hometown Grocery, set up shop with a portable generator and cash register outside the front doors, sending his children and grandchildren into the store with a flashlight and basket to get essential items to customers in need.

"I feel charged with the responsibility of taking care of this area," David said. "I don't think I could be in a better place with better customers than what I have here. I've been at a lot of locations in my life. The people here are the best I've ever been associated with."

A staple in Oak Ridge North since Hodge became owner in December 1993, the grocer prides himself on selling fresh meat and produce, while offering dairy, dry and frozen goods, toiletries, and other grocery items and services.

Hodge said several chain grocers have moved in or expanded in the area over the last 20 years, but his store provides personalized service the larger, newer stores cannot offer.

"We're still small enough that we can give personalized service," said his wife and co-owner, Tracy Hodge. "If somebody wants something they found in a store somewhere else, I've been known to go online and purchase stuff and have it brought in for customers. "

The couple said the friendly, familiar staff provides an advantage in the competitive market. David also stressed the importance of being involved in the community. He has been a member of Oak Ridge North's Economic Development Committee for more than a decade.

The Oak Ridge North grocer was originally one of eight or nine Clayton's Supermarkets when it first opened in the early 70s, David said. However, when the Clayton's chain owner died, the supermarkets were sold. Grocer Supply—which owns the shopping center—helped David take ownership of the store, which became Hodge's Food Basket in 1993.

After years of donning the Food Basket sign provided by Grocer Supply in '93, David changed the store's name to Hodge's Hometown Grocery in September. He said Grocer Supply purchased the shopping center two years ago. The store not only received a name change and some facade improvements, but saw a facelift on the interior as well and added a few new products, such as fresh breads.

The name change has made more of an impact than David anticipated, as the grocer has seen substantial growth with the new name and look. He said he feels confident about the store's future.

Products, services offered

  • Produce
  • Meat
  • Dairy
  • Frozen foods
  • Dry goods
  • Medicinal products
  • Toiletries
  • Cleaning products
  • Wine and beer
  • Other beverages
  • Bill paying
  • Postage stamps
  • Money orders

Specialty items

  • My Brothers Salsa: Gourmet salsa from Arkansas
  • Cajun Fry: Jambalaya creole company from Louisiana
  • Julian Bakery: Offers gluten-free, paleo products from La Jolla, Calif.
  • Traeger grills and wood pellets
  • Fresh produce from local vendors during the summer, including watermelon, mustard greens, cucumbers and honey
  • "I've been doing this a long time, but I'm not ready to quit," David said. "I plan on being here, and I feel very revitalized by this whole thing."

26824 I-45 N., Oak Ridge North 281-367-7597, www.hodgesfoodbasket.com, Hours: Mon.—Sun. 7 a.m.—10 p.m.