Madeline’s Story

A Partnership Rooted in Community: Mississippi Market and Urban Roots

At Mississippi Market, we believe our mission extends beyond providing natural and organic foods—we’re committed to being a responsible and engaged member of our community. That’s why our partnership with Urban Roots, a local organization empowering youth through sustainable agriculture, culinary arts, and environmental conservation, is so meaningful. We see Urban Roots staff and youth interns as vital partners in working to increase access to fresh, healthy food and reduce food insecurity on the East Side of St. Paul.

Urban Roots’ Cook Fresh interns bring their culinary skills directly to our community. This past year, they taught engaging cooking classes at our store that inspired participants to prepare nutritious and culturally relevant meals centered around community. These classes reflect the power of food to bring people together and create lasting change.

Teaching cooking classes at Mississippi Market

We see Urban Roots staff and youth interns as vital partners in working to increase access to fresh, healthy food and reduce food insecurity on the East Side of St. Paul.

Urban Roots interns joined us alongside the Minnesota Chamber of Commerce Energy Efficiency group for a unique tour of our store. During this visit, they explored how careers in agriculture and food systems align with sustainability goals, gaining insight into potential future career paths. Helping youth connect their passions with real-world opportunities is at the heart of our shared mission.

A specific highlight of our partnership was a summer day when Cook Fresh interns volunteered with M Health Fairview to pack Veggie Rx boxes in our East 7th store classroom. Urban Roots interns worked alongside us to pack fresh, local produce for this program, directly addressing food insecurity and ensuring access for families in need.

Urban Roots is more than a partner—they’re a vital part of our neighborhood. Their staff and youth interns are allies in advancing health equity in our community. Together, we’re fostering a neighborhood where everyone has access to nutritious food and opportunities to grow, learn, and thrive.

-Madeline Summers, Community and Outreach Specialist at Mississippi Market Co-op