Phoenix restaurant wants to see local farms grow

Posted on 06. Aug, 2009 by Tony Arranaga in Featured, News

My carfree experiment using the Phoenix light rail has introduced me to so many fascinating people, places, and events.  The following story is about a local business along our transit system trying to make a difference in the community.

The owner of Gallo Blanco Cafe at the Clarendon Hotel (Indian School light rail station) is reaching past his front door to serve people in Phoenix.

Doug Robson says he’s come up with a way to help local farmers during tough economic times, and is urging other local business owners to pitch in.  Robson wants to re-purpose your old canopy and framing material, metal for building a structure, or even a water filtration system.  The items will go to local farmers to help them grow crops year round and increase their profits.

For example, Robson says Arizona farmers have two tomato seasons.  With a little bit of shade, the farmers can extend the season and generate more revenue.  More money in their pockets means they’ll put more money back in the community.

“We’re not asking people to donate millions of dollars,” says Robson.  “Things you have that you’re not using, you can get a tax benefit and enjoy the fruits of labor.”

This campaign is important to Robson and many other local restaurant owners because most of the ingredients on the menu come from area farmers.  Off season, the restaurant owners need to purchase produce from another state.

While there might be federal programs to assist the farming community, Robson says that money usually comes with strings attached.  Typically the farmer must follow federal guidelines and grow a certain percentage with a product he will never sell to local businesses.

If you would like more information or you have material local farmers can use, please contact Robson at Gallo Blanco Cafe -  dr <at> gallo blaco cafe <dot> com.

Tags: Gallo Blanco, lightrail