Farm Fresh Produce for Families

We all look forward to summertime in Rhode Island and the abundance of fresh, locally-grown, healthy fruits and vegetables available at farm stands and farmer's markets all over the state. But what if you and your children were living in a homeless shelter and wondering where your next meal will come from? Many shelters struggle to provide healthy meals and depend on donations of non-perishable food and what is available at the local food bank to make meals for guests.  

At the Crossroads Family Center, we try to ensure that clients have meals that are hearty and meet the nutritional needs of growing children. We purchase many wonderful items at the Rhode Island Community Food Bank that provide the basics of meals, but sometimes it is hard to find really fresh fruit and vegetables to put on the table.  

Families take turns preparing meals and staff uses the cooking time to talk to parents about ways to make meals more nutritious and satisfying. This summer, we have been able to purchase locally grown produce through Farm Fresh Rhode Island, whose mission is "growing a local food system that values the environment, health and quality of life of RI farmers and eaters." Farm Fresh donates to local food pantries and provides produce to hospitals and local restaurants.  

Although the Family Center purchases food, Farm Fresh Rhode Island always adds extra items, at no charge, to supplement the order. Every Wednesday and Thursday families can't wait to see the wonderful fresh items that they will be preparing for dinner. It is summertime, and the children at the Family Center can enjoy an abundance of fresh sweet corn, fruits and vegetables that are delicious and help lay the foundation for a lifetime of healthy eating habits. We are grateful to Farm Fresh Rhode Island for its work to bring local produce to people who often lack access to summer's bounty.