Mapping the Impact: Pre-Season Planning and New Partner Sites for 2026
The Engine is Always Running While the market truck might not be parked on your corner just yet, things at The Best Route are moving at full speed. People often ask us what we do during the "off-season." The truth? This is when the most critical work happens.
Building a mobile market isn’t just about driving a truck; it’s about weaving a safety net.
Strengthening the Network We are currently deep in the "Site Selection" phase for our 2026 season. This month, our team has been meeting with local health departments, community centers, and housing authorities to identify the "stops" that will make the most impact.
Choosing a host site is a deliberate process. We look for:
Accessibility: Is it on a bus line? Is it walkable for seniors?
Trust: Does the community already gather here?
Need: Does the data show a gap in fresh produce availability?
We are incredibly excited to welcome several new host site partners this year who share our vision for dignified, equitable food access. These partnerships are the heartbeat of our "Last Mile" mission.
What’s New for 2026? If you’ve seen our 2026 Organizational Roadmap, you know this is a milestone year for us. We aren't just returning to the road; we’re returning better equipped.
Upgraded Technology: We’re streamlining our POS systems to make using SNAP, EBT, and FMNP vouchers faster and easier than ever.
The Gilbertsville Connection: This year, more of the food on the truck will come directly from our own small-scale vegetable production and our local growing partners like Trellis for Tomorrow.
A Growing Fleet: We are finalizing the schedules that will allow us to hit our goal of 20+ weeks of consistent service.
Join the Route Are you a community leader or property owner interested in becoming a Fresh Stop? We are still finalizing a few slots for the upcoming season and would love to hear from you.
The 2026 season is shaping up to be our most impactful yet. We can’t wait to pull up to the curb and see you there.
