Events: Arizona - Phoenix - Scottsdale

Project Roots AZ, a Phoenix-based non-profit organization started by WNBA Champion Bridget Pettis is expanding its outreach by selling produce at four farmer’s markets throughout the Valley this fall.

Pettis’ goal with Project Roots AZ is to provide nourishing food options for underprivileged communities and educate Phoenicians about the value of a healthier, natural and more sustainable way of living in urban areas.

For the past year, Project Roots AZ volunteers have been growing fresh fruits and vegetables in its two community gardens located in Central and South Phoenix. Produce harvested by volunteers and other community gardens are then donated to local food banks and sold at farmer’s markets and through seasonal produce bag delivery services. Proceeds made from the sale of these products are then reinvested in Project Roots to help more recipients.

“Growing up I learned first-hand that access to healthy foods is a luxury for many,” said Pettis. “Often the most vulnerable population is left to eat junk food or worse yet, go hungry. At Project Roots AZ, we focus on ways to educate the community about self-reliance and growing their own food. We also support the homeless by feeding them from our local community gardens and mobile kitchen service. With Project Roots AZ, we want to make a real difference and provide opportunities for anyone to get the fresh foods necessary to live a healthier life.”

Fruits and vegetables from Project Roots AZ can be found at farmer’s markets around town, including:

·       Uptown Farmer’s Market at Central and Bethany Home Rd. Saturday mornings 8 am -1pm

·       Spaces of Opportunity Farmer’s Market at 1200 W. Vineyard Rd. Saturday mornings 7am -11am

·       Tempe 6^th Street Market located at 24 E. 6th St. in Tempe Sunday mornings 7am - 11am

·       Cosmic Vegans located at  7145 N 58th Dr. in Glendale from 5pm - 10pm Fridays

Dates and times may vary, please check www.projectroots.org

For more information about how to donate time or money to Project Roots AZ, visit https://www.projectrootsaz.org/.