The Seedfolk Store, By Paul Flesichman

Combatting food deserts is not an easy task, however that does not stop some communities and its members from bringing urban agriculture to life. According to a local community member, a food desert is a geographic area where affordable and nutritious foods are difficult to obtain, particularly for those without access to a car. Food deserts can often be located in rural and urban neighborhoods where access to affordable, healthy food options, such as fruits and vegetables are limited or non-existent because grocery stores are too far away.
The Seedfolk Store is a business incubation under the supervision of ProsperRochester, Inc, a non-profit community engagement organization in the Southwest area. The name “Seedfolk Store” was inspired by the novel Seedfolks by Paul Flesichman, which explores a diverse cast of characters who transform an empty lot into a community garden. These characters came together in order to try and make a difference for themselves and their neighbors. It follows from the motto that it is very hard to escape from poverty
It provides an entrepreneurial influence for youth to come together and learn skills to better their community. The store also sells a wide variety of fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as locally made granola from Small World Food, herbal teas from Hallelujah Teas, handmade soaps, and healthy packaged snacks. In addition to growing their own produce, they also encourage that people in the community make use of their greenhouses by growing their own produce. This allows neighbors to act as managers for these greenhouses in addition to collaborating as a community. The Seedfolk Store also has a shared kitchen, which allows for community members to start catering or similar businesses of their own. This is in addition to their efforts to engage and employ youth in low-income neighborhoods in Rochester,