The small patch of soil that eventually grew into Rustic Roots Sanctuary recently received a funding commitment that places it in a much stronger position to combat food insecurity in North St. Louis County.

The 16-acre nonprofit community hub in Spanish Lake will receive nearly $1 million to expand its programs and deepen its impact, which aligns perfectly with the vision Janett Lewis had when she founded Rustic Roots in 2020.

“It all started in my front yard,” Lewis said. “I had this little community garden, and neighbors from near and far would stop by to help plant, pull weeds, and keep it going. It was more than a garden — it was a place for people to connect.”

Today, the team grows fresh, chemical-free produce year-round, trains emerging farmers through volunteer and mentorship pr

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