Rustic Roots Sanctuary, a community farm and wellness space in north St. Louis County, is set to expand its mission of food justice and neighborhood renewal after receiving nearly $1 million in new funding.
The $965,000 total includes a $724,000 grant from the Missouri Department of Agriculture’s Resilient Food Systems Infrastructure program and $241,000 in matching funds from the Missouri Foundation for Health. The investment will help the farm build new infrastructure, create agricultural jobs and improve local access to fresh, affordable produce.
For founder and Executive Director Janett Lewis, the funding represents more than just dollars — it’s a catalyst for lasting change.
“This grant is such a blessing, not just for Rustic Roots Sanctuary, but for the entire community,” Lewis said. “It allows multiple farmers to safely wash, store and package the food we grow — right here in Spanish Lake. It’s an integral part of the micro food hub we’re building to keep both the nourishment and the economic value in our community.”
The project will include a shared-use commercial facility equipped with cold storage and food processing tools. Local farmers will be able to prepare and distribute their harvest directly to neighbors, markets, and retailers, bypassing supply chain gaps that often keep fresh food from reaching underserved communities.
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