The Superior Express -

Kiers Thriftway reported a good turn out for the first round of the Simply Produce program. They sold 118 baskets that were distributed to customers on Feb. 1.

The Simply Produce program has been in the planning since fall. The program started in Smith Center where it received positive outcomes. The K-State Post Rock Extension office hopes to bring the Simply Produce program to other rural counties as well.

For $15, a customer receives 15 pounds of produce and a healthy recipe that uses the ingredients. The first distribution had items such as cucumber, a pound of carrots, celery, romaine lettuce, red pepper, grape tomatoes, and five pounds of russet potatoes. The next date for picking up the baskets is March 1. In order to receive this basket, orders need to be placed between Feb. 16 and 22 by noon. It is important the baskets are picked up between 12 and 12:30 p.m. as that is when the volunteers are available.

There will be distributions every month until June so the program doesn't interfere with farmers' markets and gardens in July and August.

The Simply Produce program relies heavily on volunteers. If you would like to help out with this program, contact Ashley Svaty or Brenda Langdon at the Post Rock Extension office.

This program helps Kiers' freight weight, which allows for some lower prices. Kiers doesn't really get profits from this program. It only costs the time and effort from the staff and volunteers. Kathy Stewart has done a lot for this program. She has helped coordinate e-mails and she keeps up with the sign-up sheet.