I do.
Meet Brittany Sidway and Laura Tangerini.
Brittany is the farm manager of the Medway Community Farm in my hometown of Medway, Massachusetts.
And Laura Tangerini manages the farm at Tangerini’s farm in Millis, Massachusetts the town next door.
Here’s Laura and her husband, Charlie who also works the land.
I love the energy I feel on the farm… a quiet busy with an undertone of serenity and pure beauty. Here I am amongst the Brussels Sprouts! Does life get much better?
I think everyone should know their farmer and where their food is grown. I know for me and my family joining a community supported agriculture program (CSA) has encouraged more consumption of organically grown vegetables, a greater variety of seasonal and more nourishing produce, while supporting local farmers. I am fortunate that both Tangerini’s and Medway Community Farm offer CSA programs. I belong to both 🙂
I love that I know where my food comes from and how it is grown. I love that I get the opportunity to roam around a farm at least weekly to get my weekly share. I love that my children have picked their own corn, chopped fresh herbs, and have a greater appreciation of where and how their food is grown.
According to Oxfam America one of the best ways to combat global food insecurity it to invest in farmers and remove the barriers that limit their productivity. By investing in the world’s billion-plus smallholder farmers there will be a more stable food supply for generations to come.
Oxfam America is hosting a World Food Day October 16th in an effort to raise awareness of our global food environment.
Oxfam is an international relief and development organization that creates lasting solutions to poverty, hunger, and injustice. Together with individuals and local groups in more than 90 countries, Oxfam saves lives, helps people overcome poverty, and fights for social justice. To learn more about Oxfam’s World Food Day, look here.
Perhaps you could consider hosting a World Food Day Sunday dinner to discuss where your food comes from and who is the face behind your food and how to make more sustainable food choices? Our everyday food choices impact our food supply more than you may want to know.
Organic farming practices help maintain the soil’s richness and is better for the planet and better for you and me. According to the Food and Agricultural Organization of the United Nations, “Many changes observed in the environment are long term, occurring slowly over time. Organic agriculture considers the medium- and long-term effect of agricultural interventions on the agro-ecosystem. It aims to produce food while establishing an ecological balance to prevent soil fertility or pest problems. Organic agriculture takes a proactive approach as opposed to treating problems after they emerge.”
Love this chicken!
Seasonal, freshly produce is the most nutrient dense. Purchasing locally grown food is best for the environment too as less fuels are used and fewer carbon dioxide emissions occur to get the food to you and your family.
For my family, joining a Community Supported Agriculture program was a win-win. We ate foods we had never tried.
Like these Japanese turnips…plucked fresh at Medway Community Garden.
And this gi-normous kohlrabi! Courtesy of the CSA at Tangerini’s!
Our food decisions do make a difference as the global food supply is so interconnected. I am so glad I know my farmers! Maybe you could get to know your farmer too? Community Supported Agriculture programs are sprouting up everywhere, find a farm near you and give it a try. Check out localharvest.org to find a CSA or local farm close to your home.