Innovative prepared foods program expands to Depot Town facility

By Tom Dodd

Harvest Kitchen, a community supported agriculture (CSA) program, has received a $28,603 grant from the US Department of Agriculture and leased new kitchen space that will allow the company to increase capacity, work with more area farmers, and develop new farm-to-consumer distribution channels.

Founded in 2007, Harvest Kitchen prepares fresh, locally sourced vegetables, fruits, grains and meats into dishes and meals for members who purchase subscriptions. Working directly and indirectly with 20 small farmers and producers, Harvest Kitchen currently serves 60 families and has garnered excellent reviews for its tasty, creative menus and commitment to the local food movement.

The grant was awarded under the Farmers Market Promotion Program run by the USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service, which supports programs that make fresh, local, and healthy produce more readily available to consumers. The funds will be used toward the purchase of commercial grade kitchen equipment in the company’s newly leased space, the former Queen of Hearts bakery at 32 E. Cross Street.

“This grant and the new space will allow us to significantly increase our capacity to receive, process, and store the bounty of our local farmers and producers year-round,” says Michelle Hartmann, Harvest Kitchen’s co-owner. “We’re proud of the opportunities and connections we’ve helped create for these farmers. Consumers certainly benefit from new and convenient ways to purchase and enjoy local foods, and in doing so help expand the local food economy. It’s a win for everyone.