The Superior Express -

Kier's of Mankato and Post Rock District Extension are implementing a produce basket program. "Simply Produce" offers customers approximately 15 pounds of produce for $15. The program features a bulk purchase that is available monthly. It is made available to the public at a lower price through wholesale ordering and is done as a commitment to supporting the local community and bolstering the regional food system. Simply Produce baskets are available to anyone and there are no income guidelines.

Produce baskets will contain a variety of fresh fruits and vegetables and may vary slightly from what is typically available on the produce department's shelves. Basket contents will be different for each ordering period as well. In addition to produce, customers will receive a recipe highlighting basket items and educational materials on food storage and produce handling.

Kier's of Mankato and Post Rock District Extension have joined together to implement the Simply Produce program which offers customers $15 for 15 pounds of bulk produce monthly. Simply Produce baskets are available to anyone and there are no income guidelines.

Produce baskets are purchased through the register and must be paid for at time of ordering. The purchase is taxable. Baskets may be ordered Wednesday through Tuesday 12 noon, prior to the distribution day. For example, the first Simply Produce distribution is set for Tuesday, Feb. 1. Baskets may be ordered from Jan. 19 through Jan. 25. Because of the nature of the program and the ordering restrictions through the wholesaler, the ordering period and distribution times are non-negotiable. Produce may be picked up on Tuesday, Feb. 1, between 12 to 12:30 p.m., from Kiers in Mankato. In the event a customer is unable to pick up their produce during the distribution window, they may have someone else do so for them.

"Produce basket distribution that utilizes local retail venues is designed to increase access to healthy fruits and vegetables for consumers, while stimulating positive economic impact and building regional food system sustainability," commented Ashley Svaty of Post Rock Extension District. "We are proud to partner with Kier's to promote this great opportunity for our residents."

For more information about the Simply Produce initiative, contact Post Rock Extension agents Ashley Svaty ([email protected]) or Brenda Langdon ([email protected]) or Kiers at (785) 378-3192. Volunteers are needed to assist on distribution days. If you are interested in volunteering, contact the Extension office at (785) 378-3174.