Farm Fresh Produce in Hazon CSA
A Community-Supported Agriculture Program with a Local Farm
The Kaplen JCC on the Palisades is now taking registration for a 22-week partnership with a local farm that will provide members who purchase advance shares with the opportunity to enjoy healthy eating for less than $25 a week. The partnership, with Freebird Farms—a small family farm located in Palantine Bridge, New York (below)—is an example of what is known as Community-Supported Agriculture, where members receive a healthy supply of fresh organic, seasonal produce and support local farming at the same time. Participation in a CSA helps create a healthy relationship with the food we eat, the land on which it is grown and those who grow it.
“The beauty of community supported agriculture is that it represents a committed partnership between a farm and a community of supporters that provides a direct link between the production and consumption of food,” explains Marilyn Yeshua, the JCC program coordinator. “The end result creates economically stable farm operations, where shareholders can be assured of high quality produce, and at the same time, know they are contributing to a healthier, more sustainable community and world.”
This year’s season will run from June 6 – October 31, and welcomes JCC members and non- members to participate. Shares include locally grown, certified organic produce at competitive prices, which will be delivered weekly to the JCC during the 22-week season. Full- and half-shares are available, as well as shares of organic free-range eggs, fruit, and a variety of other goods such as organic, free-trade chocolate and coffee, European-style butter and maple syrup. Full shares average 8-10 varieties of vegetables each week.
The farmers will be making a visit to the JCC on April 26 at 7 pm to launch the season. They will discuss organic farming and the nuts-and-bolts of backyard composting—how it works, things to avoid. They will also be happy to answer any questions you may have about the CSA.
Registration deadline for this year’s season is May 25. For more information or to purchase a CSA share, contact Marilyn Yeshua at myeshua@jccotp.org.