'Food On The Move' Looks To Raise $2M To Complete 'Urban Farm' Project

A local nonprofit is planning a major project as it works to expand food access to communities in need.

'Food on the Move' says it needs to raise about $2 million to complete its latest project, 'the Urban Farm.'

The non-profit plans to break ground on the 10,000-square-foot indoor hydroponic and aquaponic grow facility this fall.

The nonprofit says the new facility will expand the group's use of technology and fish to grow plants faster, healthier and cheaper through its own eco-system indoors. Nonprofit leaders say they expect the Urban Farm to produce about 150,000 pounds of food each year, benefitting many area organizations like Catholic Charities.

The new facility will also include training classrooms, food prep space and an area to host events.

"Our goal with the Urban Farm is to make sure it's something that can attack food desserts holistically, and part of that is making sure it's sustainable. So it will generate enough revenue to cover its expenses. While also serving those who need access to fresh produce," said Kevin Harper, President and CEO of Food On the Move.

Harper says he expects construction on the new facility to take about 10 months.