More than five years of planning, fundraising, garnering community support and overcoming obstacles with a team of mostly volunteers culminated today as Food Enterprise and Economic Development (FEED) Kitchens opened at 1219 N. Sherman Ave.

“This is incredible–I couldn’t have imagined five years ago that we’d do this project and be here today,” Project Chair Ellen Barnard said. “There are so many people who will benefit from FEED Kitchens in terms of new opportunities, new jobs and the ability to pursue a dream.”

The 5,400-square foot facility, which cost $1.5 million to build, includes five commercial-grade kitchens dedicated to meat processing, baking, vegetable processing, deli preparation and training.

FEED Kitchens is available to rent 24 hours/day, 365 days/year. According to Barnard, the facility will increase the number of locally produced foods made by people who otherwise don’t have access to a commercial-grade kitchen.

Current committed users include the River Food Pantry and Madison Urban Ministry training program, Farm2Fork local food products, Mandy’s Mood Foods and Madison Chocolate Company.