Food Access

Project 1: Opening a Community Food Resource Center in Zone 1

A food desert exists in Zone 1, particularly in the western edge of the Zone, West of Kansas Expressway. This means that in many areas of the Zone, residents must travel more than 1 mile to obtain groceries. This problem is serious for those without reliable transportation. The goal of a Community Resource Center in Zone 1 is to provide access to high-quality, healthy food. Ozarks Food Harvest will use the center to distribute primarily fruits and vegetables and other food items that are more perishable. In addition, the center will offer regular access with hours of operation similar to that of retail locations. Families utilizing the center will come from multiple avenues, including: other food pantries, churches, and referring partner agencies. As with other locations within the OFH network, the center will be designed for families with limited resources, hoping to help those in most need. 

Help Needed
Building to locate center; Expertise in writing a business plan; Donated or low-cost food items; Cash donations; Volunteers to work in the center; Computer equipment & general supplies.

  • Status: Planning phase
  • Timeframe: TBD
  • Scope: Zone 1
  • Cost: $250,000 to $500,000
  • Want to help? Sign up here.

Project 2: Considering the Feasibility of a Mobile Food Market

Research current best practices for mobile food market, identify costs of launching project and identify potential donors and/or business partners.

  • Status: Planning phase
  • Timeframe: TBD
  • Scope: Zone 1
  • Cost: TBD
  • Want to help? Sign up here.

Project 3: Coordinating Community Gardens Within Zone 1

Springfield Community Gardens has multiple gardens throughout the community and especially in Council Zone 1. These gardens serve as a key connector for neighborhoods, families and individuals around food. They provide the opportunity to grow food, learn from others and build friendships. The Food Access Team is tasked with helping coordinate activities of current Zone 1 gardens. If a community garden is not already in the neighborhood, neighbors will help find a location for a garden. Consolidating several action items within the Zone 1 Blitz “wish lists”, the goal of this project is to analyze needs of all community gardens referenced in Zone Blitz discussions, identify resources needed and coordinate obtaining those resources.

Help Needed

Volunteers to work in the gardens; Additional garden equipment, tools, seeds; Assistance with remodeling garage; Land for gardens; Financial donations; Irrigation costs.

  • Status: Planning phase
  • Timeframe: In Progress
  • Scope: Zone 1
  • Cost: TBD
  • Want to help? Sign up here.