Fresh Stop Project

New Roots is a non-profit based in Louisville, Kentucky that ignites communities to come together, share knowledge, and build relationships with farmers to secure access to fresh food. New Roots works with several communities to open bi-weekly Fresh Stops, where local farmers provide naturally-raised produce, meats, and eggs at affordable prices in lower-income food deserts. The participants pool their money and SNAP benefits to buy shares that range from $12 to $25 in costs and are based on income. Buying shares allows for large quantities of fresh food to be delivered to a neighborhood location by local farmers, who in turn gain a stable market. A typical Fresh Stop delivery includes 10-15 items that vary depending on season and availability, such as kale, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, carrots, squash, okra, corn, cabbage, or watermelon. In addition to food, the Fresh Stops provide a place for community residents to gather, learn, and build community relationships.

The success of Fresh Stops has led to the creation of Veggie Rx, a pilot program also administered by New Roots and supported through a Humana Foundation grant. Its goal is to encourage lifelong well-being in families who spend time together in fun, healthful activities such as cooking classes, physical exercise with a personal trainer, and food justice classes. The pilot also provides the participating families with a free share of produce at a Fresh Stop.

The goal of the program is for communities to enjoy and have access to affordable fresh food year-round.

Fresh Stops has improved access to wholesome, local foods for urban residents. In addition, Fresh Stops has engaged community members in the food justice movement and has promoted the adoption of healthy lifestyle changes.

New Roots has implemented five successful community Fresh Stops in Louisville, and mentored one in Washington, D.C.
Fresh Stops now feeds 550 families, who can now afford to eat more servings of fruits and vegetables per day. Many become involved in the food justice/access movement and advocate for fresh, affordable food options in their neighborhoods. Fresh Stops has led to the creation of the pilot program Veggie Rx for furthering New Roots' commitment to supporting healthy lifestyles.