The Fresh Pantry project returns to St. Francis County

Residents in St. Francis County has a food program returning to the area.

“Zenenvirotech, Incorporated is now implementing one of their food security projects, Fresh Pantry in both St. Francis and Jefferson counties,” said Jason Evansingston with Zenenvirotech.

Fresh Pantry project was piloted in St. Francis County last spring, according to Evansingston, as a result of the pandemic.

The project has since expanded and returned due to grant funding awarded by Arkansas Community Foundation.

“This project ensures that seniors as well as others who participate in community food programs are provided with fresh locally grown produce on a months basis,” said Evansingston.

“In addition to providing nutrient dense fruits and vegetables, Fresh Pantry provides an additional source of income for small local specialty crop farmers who have limited customers bases,” said Evansingston. “This project has economic as well as nutritional implications that will help build healthier communities via local food system initiatives.”

According to Evansingston the grant allowed the company to register local specialty crop farmers as vendors. Zenenvirotech will then keep in contact with them throughout the next 25 weeks to provide fresh produce to food programs that are affiliated with the Fresh Pantry project.

“Seven Harvest, Incorporated is a farm located in Forrest City,” said Evansingston. “They recently completed the process for becoming a Fresh Pantry vendor. This farm will supply the project with spring mix and other green leafy vegetables when available and as needed. “

The project has provided produce to the St. Francis County Food Pantry last year and has already completed their first round of produce for this year.

“Seniors received bags of recently harvest spring mix through the SFC Food Pantry, “said Evansingston.

“I am so happy that Zenenvirotech and myself are able to bring these types of services to residents of St. Francis County,” said Evansingston.