Chet and Linda Bower received news that they are a recipient of the Kansas SPARK Grant.
The Strengthening People and Revitalizing Kansas (SPARK) Taskforce is leading Kansas forward in recovery from the effects of COVID-19. They are responsible for statewide distribution of the U.S. Coronavirus Relief Fund.
The Bowers own five acres northwest of Fort Scott, of which one acre is in garden produce.
The Bower’s grant will be used for repairing or updating farm equipment, Linda said. “The equipment must be repaired or purchased by Dec. 31, according to the grant.”
“This will allow us to effectively increase produce to supply to local people,” she said.
The Bower’s have been vendors at the Fort Scott Farmer’s Market for many years.
In addition, they supply produce to Papa Don’s Restaurant, Fort Scott and Emory’s Restaurant in Missouri.
“Excess produce is donated to the Beacon,” Linda said. “Also local assisted living facilities. We hate to throw anything away.”
The Fort Scott Farmer’s Market ends the last Saturday in October.
“Right now there is squash, tomatoes, watermelon, cucumbers, potatoes, zucchini, pumpkins, baked goods, pies, chicken, eggs, honey, and crafts,” Linda said.
The market is located on Skutbitz Plaza, in front of the Fort Scott National Historic Site, at the end of North Main Street.
The vendors set up shop on Tuesdays from 4-6 p.m. and Saturday from 8 a.m. to noon.
