Our Roots: The Grow Jackson Story
From Gardens to Grocery: The Grow Jackson Journey
Founded in 2020, Grow Jackson began as a small community gardening initiative focused on improving access to fresh food in Jackson, Michigan. Over time, that work expanded into youth workforce development, nutrition education, food distribution, and community partnerships designed to strengthen our local food system.
Today, Grow Jackson operates gardens, youth programs, and food access initiatives across the city. The River & Rail Food Hub is the next evolution of that work — creating permanent infrastructure to anchor fresh food access and support local farmers for the long term.
JACKSON CENTERED
A place centered on fresh food and community
River & Rail is more than a grocery space. It is a vibrant community destination designed to connect consumers, farmers, food producers, and supporters through local food.
Year-round shopping in a comfortable retail setting.
Gathering spaces including a beer garden and food truck court.
Education focused on nutrition and local agriculture.
Why River & Rail matters for Jackson, MI
Jackson needs a stronger, more connected local food system. We help meet that need by creating:
Local Access Point
Making fresh, locally sourced food easy to find in the City of Jackson.
Economic Stability
Promoting and expanding opportunities for local farmers and producers.
Community Hub
A welcoming space centered on nourishing people and building relationships.
Finding Your Way to River & Rail
Nestled in the heart of Jackson, Michigan, River & Rail Farmer’s Market and Food Hub is easy to find and worth the trip. Located near the crossroads of historic rail lines and just minutes from downtown Jackson, our market is designed to be accessible, welcoming, and central to the community.
Jackson, Michigan
