Finding Fresh Food in Fenton Now Easier With Produce Co-Op

There's a new way for residents to obtain produce in Fenton. Find out how you can place an order through the new Community Helpings Co-Op group, or participate as a volunteer:

What is it? The Community Helpings Co-Op allows community members to purchase fresh produce by ordering in bulk. The effort is completely volunteer-driven. Donna Polizzi serves as the lead organizer of the Fenton group. Her husband, Mayor Mike Polizzi, and around 15 residents gather every other week to unload, sort, and dole out produce baskets to participants.

How did it start? There's been a group in High Ridge for a little over a year, according to organizer Mary Fortner. The Polizzis sought out Fortner to help them found their own group in Fenton. The group has been active for about six weeks, with deliveries every other week.

What do you get? For $23.50, you get a basket of assorted fruits and vegetables. Most of the items rotate depending on what is in season and produce pricing, according to the co-op website. During their most recent pickup, Fenton customers received blueberries, broccoli, lettuce and bananas, among other items.

Additional food, ranging from dairy items to dry goods, can also be purchased.

How to order: Orders are made online. The new ordering period opened on June 30. Check Community Helpings Co-Op's groups page to find out when the next ordering period opens in Fenton, or another town nearest you.

Where are orders picked up? RiverChase lends space to volunteers free of charge. Deliveries are made every other Thursday.