Food deserts in Kansas City are a problem one young man is hoping to change.
Maxfield Kaniger will bring fresh food to communities that need it through his nonprofit called Kanbe’s Markets.
“My idea grew from the need just to get fresh produce into food deserts or areas without access,” Kaniger said.
The 26-year-old said the idea came from his love of food.
“It was growing up with food and being around people who love food,” he said. "And then separating myself with that when I went to college and realized that not everyone had the same experience with food that I did. So I needed to change that.”
Instead of building his own store, he decided to sell affordable and fresh produce in area convenient stores.
“I realize stores like this one here are already all over this neighborhood and we just have to work with them and collaborate with the people and store owners that are already making a difference in that community to get the produce there,” Kaniger said.
Kaniger already sold produce in a pilot store, called Cakery Bread and Bakery Outlet on 3033 Prospect. From September until the end of December, more than 2,500 pounds of fresh produce were delivered.
“It was really really exciting to see how enthusiastic the community was to see produce there,” Kaniger said. “Day one, I was selling stuff out of the boxes before I could get it onto the shelves.”
Now, Kaniger will be teaming up with Midwest Fuels on 8025 Hickman Mills.
It’s something people in the community say they are grateful for.
“That's really good, giving back to the community, even if it's something you're buying,” Gia King said.
"There's not a lot of close grocery stores around so, he helping us out around here,” David Lidge said.
Kaniger said his goal is to create a community environment focused around food.
“Food, love, and community is most important to me and that's really what I'm trying to spread,” Kaniger said. “There are the health aspects of eating fresh fruits and vegetables, but more than that it's just talking about food and having people come together in a loving kind of way that I grew up with.”
Kaniger hopes to set up shop inside Midwest Fuels by late spring.
For more information on Kanbe’s Markets you can check out its Facebook page or Instagram.
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Rae Daniel can be reached at Rae.Daniel@KSHB.com.
