Food Bank starts pilot program for produce

The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank has begun a four-week Produce Pilot Program to get fresh produce to allied agencies quicker.

There are many different types of vegetables in this picture.

The Northwest Arkansas Food Bank has begun a four-week Produce Pilot Program to get fresh produce to allied agencies quicker.

The test trial, which began Aug. 28, is being tried at Samaritan Community centers in Rogers and Springdale as well as the Senior Center in Springdale and Helping Hands in Bentonville. The trial agencies will be receiving fruits, vegetables, bread and bakery items.

“Instead of bringing the produce from retail stores back to the Food Bank for distribution, we’re picking up it up and taking it straight to the test agencies,” said Carrie Harlow, chief operating officer at the Food Bank.

“It improves the shelf life of the produce and we’re able to distribute on the same day,” she said. “So far it’s been successful. The second week of the trial, we doubled what was dropped off the previous week. The clients were loving it so much.”

If the trial works, the Food Bank hopes to expand it to other agencies, she added.

Lori Proud, director of the Springdale Senior Center, said the seniors were thrilled with the program.

The center found several things it could use for Meals on Wheels that will result in a cost savings.

“The seniors have been in each day telling us how much they enjoyed the food,” Proud said. “One lady said she was able to make three meals out of the fruit and veggies she got. Another lady said she had the best veggie dinner.

Proud’s favorite comment was a lady who said, “Oh my, are those Bing cherries? Those are my favorite but I can never afford them so I just walk on by.”

“Thanks to you she got them for free,” said Proud. “I know it is extra work for each of you but it made a huge difference in the life of our seniors.

Courtney Wrinkle, market coordinator at the Samaritan Community Center, thanked the Food Bank for the fresh produce.

“I know our clients this week will be really excited,” she added.

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