Farm Share Program Renewed for Third Season in 2024
January 9, 2024
CT NOFA is proud to bring our Farm Share Program back for 2024!
In 2022, Northeast Organic Association of Connecticut (CT NOFA) launched a state-wide Farm Share Program, with funding by USDA’s Farmer’s Market Promotions Program (FMPP) grant. Farm Share aims to increase food access and address economic equity and inclusion in two ways: it provides access to fresh, healthy food for limited-income residents and it supports local farms that operate CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) programs.
In our pilot year (2022), CT NOFA distributed $3,300 to support 11 farms offering 31 discounted CSA shares.
In 2023, our program participation and impact grew in major ways. We distributed $20,000 to support 15 farms and offer 58 discounted CSA shares to CT residents in need. Additionally, we increased the discounted percentage for CSA shares to 50% and encouraged farmers to raise funds to support their program. Farmer-led fundraising contributed approximately $9,000. We are thrilled those farms were able to increase accessibility to their CSA offerings.
This year, CT NOFA wants to continue to build relationships with our participating farms, actively promote them, and assist in farmer-led fundraising efforts. Farmers will once again have the opportunity to offer a number of half-priced CSA shares.
How It Works
- CT NOFA provides funds for 50% of each farm share sold to a buyer in need of food assistance, paid directly to the farms.
- Farm Share program recipients (CSA buyers) pay 25% of the total farm share cost upon program acceptance. Payment is made directly to the farm.
- Participating farms are highly encouraged to fundraise 25% to help subsidize the cost of the share(s) offered through the program.
Farm Share is a win-win-win: individuals and families gain access to healthy, affordable food; farmers benefit from an increase in market opportunities, build their customer base and make their CSA programs more viable; and direct relationships are built between farmers and eaters, contributing to more socially connected and resilient communities.
Are you a farmer managing a CSA program who would like to participate? The application window is now open and all applications must be submitted by February 29. Interested farmers can learn more here and any questions about the program should be directed to Sherlene Rodriguez.
If you’re not a CSA farmer but would like to help support this program, you can do so by beginning or renewing a CT NOFA membership, donating to support the program, or subscribing to our newsletter to stay up to date on all developments.
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