Transforming Spanish Lake: Rustic Roots Sanctuary Secures $1 Million to Enhance Local Food Access

Rustic Roots Sanctuary, a community farm in north St. Louis County, is about to take a big step forward. With nearly $1 million in new funding, they’re ready to enhance their mission of food justice and community revitalization.

This funding includes a generous $724,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Agriculture. They also received $241,000 in matching funds from the Missouri Foundation for Health. This investment will help build new facilities, create local agricultural jobs, and improve access to fresh, affordable food.

Janett Lewis, the founder and Executive Director, sees the funding as a spark for positive change. “This grant is a blessing for the whole community,” she said. “It lets multiple farmers wash, store, and package their food right here in Spanish Lake. This is part of the micro food hub we’re building to make sure nourishment and economic value stay in our area.”

The project will feature a shared commercial kitchen equipped with cold storage and food processing tools. This setup allows local farmers to prepare their harvest and distribute it directly to neighbors and local markets. By doing this, they can fill the gaps in the supply chain that often prevent fresh food from reaching underserved neighborhoods.

This initiative reflects a growing trend toward community-supported agriculture, especially in urban areas. According to a recent report from the USDA, community farms like Rustic Roots are vital for improving food access. They not only provide fresh produce but also foster social connections and local economies.

Social media reactions to Rustic Roots’ initiative have been overwhelmingly positive. Users express excitement about local food and supporting sustainable practices. These conversations highlight a shift in consumer preferences toward fresh, locally-sourced options, which suggests a growing awareness of the importance of food justice.

In short, Rustic Roots is not just building a farm; it’s nurturing a community. With strong investment and community support, they are on a path to make a real impact on food access and local economies.

For more on food justice initiatives, check the USDA’s recent findings [here](https://www.usda.gov).

Source link