Working with the YMCA and Crabtree Farms, founder of the sweet small business Alms + Fare Christine Althorpe had a desire to feed bellies as much as she feeds the soul. “Provisions with a mission” is their mantra and helps keep their food focused business driven to fight malnutrition. Hosting classes around the area and donating a percentage of her sales to the aforementioned non-profits, Alms & Fare is a delectable addition as our newest vendor.

Providing all gluten-free and dairy-free items, Alms + Fare is all about making sweet things simple, with treats that are delicious yet nutritious. By using just a few quality ingredients to create our snacks and desserts, they are sure to both benefit your body, and satisfy your sweet tooth. From brownies to cinnamon rolls and, my favorite, pop tarts, Christine can’t say which she loves more—making healthy snacks or giving back.

“I have always been interested in the impact of food on our bodies; the way it makes us feel, the energy it gives us, and how it has the ability to connect us to our community. As I started to learn, I noticed it was difficult to find unprocessed foods free of preservatives and chemicals, especially in the snack and dessert world. I figured there was no better way to start than providing people with food that was truly nutritious, inside and out. I wanted to combine this with my love for serving others. On several humanitarian aid trips, I learned that one of the basic necessities our world lacks, is nutritious food and this showed me what I am truly passionate about – fighting malnutrition. This is exactly what I created Alms + Fare to serve.”

Located in more than a dozen shops around Tennessee and a few in Georgia and Alabama, Christine is thrilled to grow her reach in the community. About to celebrate their two year anniversary in June, she just moved into her new, more spacious commercial kitchen and last week started participating in our market. Congratulate her on her endeavors and be sure to support her small business while simultaneously supporting our community. Doing good never tasted so great!