Addressing the issue of food deserts is a pressing concern for many communities, and Frankfort is no exception. The city lacks grocery stores close to most residential neighborhoods.  The public transit routes are limited and only run during the day.  The transit system also restricts the riders to bringing only four grocery bags on the buses. Moreover, food prices are rising, making it difficult for the low-income residents to afford healthy food. This situation has led to a severe food crisis in the city, which needs to be addressed immediately.

To tackle this issue, a program was initiated that aimed to provide residents with the knowledge and resources to grow their vegetables. The program was held multiple times each year on weekends and evenings, and the event sites were located near low-income neighborhoods. The attendees were given a grow bag with potting media, tomato, and herb plants, and they were taught how to care for and harvest their vegetables. At each event, attendees were engaged in discussions about the benefits of growing their own food and the maintenance of a successful home garden. Home Vegetable Guides were provided, along with contact information, so participants could reach out for additional support or resources if needed.

The impact of this program has been noticeable. In its first year, the program attracted 43 attendees over the course of three events. This number increased to 82 attendees in the second year, spread across four events. Perhaps most importantly, approximately 80% of attendees reported that they had never participated in extension programming before.  By reaching out to low-income neighborhoods and providing them with the tools necessary to grow their own food, this program is empowering residents to take control of their nutritional needs. It not only addresses the issue of limited access to affordable, fresh produce but also offers a sustainable solution that can have long-term benefits for the community.

While the program is still in its early stages, the increase in attendees and positive feedback from participants suggest that it has the potential to make a lasting impact. By giving individuals the knowledge and resources to grow their own food, Frankfort is taking a step towards mitigating the effects of being a food desert and promoting a healthier, more sustainable community.