America's obesity epidemic is often attributed to a lack of available and affordable unprocessed foods, especially for lower income and urban populations. The mobile farmers' market
Fresh Food Hub offers a simple antidote while also supporting the local food system and economy.
Founder Ryan Kuck and his wife's personal gardening project in the Belmont section of West Philadelphia grew into a community garden on Preston Avenue, aptly named
Preston's Paradise. Kuck used a pushcart to distribute fresh produce from Preston's Paradise, eventually partnering with
Greensgrow, an urban farm in Kensington, to expand.
When Flying Kite last covered the company, Kuck had purchased a bread truck and was operating it as a mobile store four days a week.
Now, the company is positioning to grow again.
"Our pilot has been pretty successful and we'd like to extend it to other neighborhoods," says Kuck. "If we really want to take this idea to its full potential, we need to invest."
Kuck launched a Kickstarter campaign, hoping to raise $9,773 to branch geographically, support more local farmers, extend hours, hire more staff and upgrade the truck.
The community responded -- the Fresh Food Hub campaign exceeded its goal, raising $10,500 even before its funding period was complete.
One community that Kuck is particularly dedicated to serving is Philadelphia's older adults. In addition to food stamps, the truck also accepts produce vouchers from the
Philadelphia Corporation for Aging (PCA). Kuck is currently working with PCA to identify additional senior centers in North and South Philly to add to the truck's route.
Kuck's reaction to the community's support for the Fresh Food Hub is as simple as the food he grows and sells.
"People just are happier when they eat well," he says.
The Fresh Food Hub's Spring operations will begin on April 30; like them on Facebook for updates about the truck's route.
Writer: Nicole Woods
Source: Ryan Kuck, Fresh Food Hub