A: Most of the food found in conventional grocery stores has been shipped nearly 1,500 miles to the store shelf. To endure such a journey, food must be harvested before its optimal ripeness – meaning the nutrient density is compromised (along with the flavor). Getting adequate nutrition is important for brain development, body function, and overall quality of life. With all these facts considered, we believe in supporting our local “good-food” initiatives in the community including school and at-home gardens, composting, sourcing from local farms, CSAs (community-supported agriculture) etc. and providing nutrition education. By eating seasonally in any climate, people can benefit from more nutrients, save money and reduce environmental impact.

A: One definition we relate to is from the Michigan Good Food Charter, which defines “good food” as food that is healthy, green, fair and affordable. Within the context the group creates, healthy food is defined as food that provides nourishment and enables people to thrive; green food was produced in a manner that is environmentally sustainable; fair means that no one along the production line was exploited during its creation; affordable means that all have access to it. Some may think good food means primarily fruits and vegetables, but good food also includes meat, dairy and grains. And while good food is nutrient-dense it is also tasty and visually appealing.

Yes! Nourish is a 501(c) nonprofit, founded in 2009.