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Buying local makes everyone happy!
As the saying goes, “You can’t buy happiness, but you can buy local, and that’s kind of the same.” Much of the food Well Fed purchases is local, coming from Arkansas grocery stores, farms, and food hubs—many of them minority-owned. So why do we place such an emphasis on purchasing local, whole foods?
In short, it makes everyone happier.
"We have always wanted to benefit communities in a win-win manner. When we buy from local growers and producers, we can be a blessing to them as well as the families we feed. Locally grown foods are fresher and have extra benefits for our bodies, too."
We buy local because it:
- Strengthens local communities by keeping more money in the pockets of hardworking Arkansans and supporting independent businesses.
- Provides fresher food since local produce, meat, and grains often travel shorter distances and reach participants closer to peak freshness.
- Restores dignity by helping families receive high-quality, whole foods they can feel proud to bring home.
- Supports the environment by reducing “food miles” and cutting down on transportation and refrigeration needs.
Of course, not all food can be local—there aren’t many banana or orange farmers in Arkansas! But whenever possible, Well Fed purchases directly from nearby businesses and growers to provide fresh, whole foods to the communities we serve.
You can find a full list of our food partners in our 2025 Impact Report. And if you’d like to join our network, click the button below to get started!