Food access is more than putting food on the table. True food access creates a food system that supports community resiliency. People in many East St. Louis neighborhoods must travel — if they can — to other communities for healthy food, a basic and essential need.

JJK FAN equips young people with life skills and careers so they can thrive. We are equally committed to improving food access and economic vitality so our youth can play an active role in shaping the future of our food systems.

Through the JJK FAN collaboration, Lansdowne UP builds and maintains our growing spaces. They operate over 30 raised beds — plus an active greenhouse that features future-focused aquaponic and hydroponic systems — where students learn to grow and harvest fresh fruits and vegetables.

JJK FAN proudly delivers its bounty to local food pantries and shares food with the surrounding community. All year, 11- to 13-year-old students grow their entrepreneurship skills at their market for families and staff. Working with Illinois Extension experts, students gain skills in sales, money management, communication and leadership.