Local Families Initiative
2024 is the 5th year of the Local Families Initiative here at Small Holdings Farm.
We are so pleased to say that and to share with you both the story of how this community project came to be and how you can contribute financially or otherwise.
How It Began
In the early days of the COVID-19 pandemic, both a long-time friend and a family member living outside of Nova Scotia each reached out to ask if they could make a financial donation to Small Holdings Farm. While they couldn’t personally access the fruits of our labours, they wanted to help a community family in need and support our farm.
Our friends and family, like so many others, had been asking themselves what they could do to help others during these difficult times.
We were incredibly touched by this thoughtful idea but unsure of how to put it into action. We didn’t have such a program in place but promised to reach out to community members and organizations who could help us create something.
Eager to give, these folks sent us funds straight away, long before we had any plan in place.
Then, on the advice of a wise neighbour, we connected with the local chapter of SchoolsPlus, a provincial organization operating out of our public schools and working to support families facing barriers to food access.
Partnering with SchoolsPlus, 10 local families expressed interest that first year. More funds were needed to provide ten CSA shares and so we sent out a call to our friends, family, neighbours, customers and community.
In 24 hours, we had received all the funds necessary to make this new dream a reality!
Over the course of the 2020 season, 10 families made use of their CSA share. Many of these families came to the farm each Friday while others had their orders delivered by SchoolsPlus. It was wonderful to be a part of this community initiative, especially during a time of physical and social isolation.
Thanks to the ongoing generosity of many, we have been able to grow the initiative year over year, with funds raised in 2023 providing 23 shares.
Our goal for the 2024 farm season is to provide 25 shares.
The Local Families Initiative represents the very best of our selves, our community, and Small Holdings Farm. We hope you’ll join us!
The 2024 Farm Season
2024 will be the 5th year of this community program. SchoolsPlus is on board once again as our partner, set to connect families with our farm and support those households throughout the season with barriers such as transportation.
What can you do to help?
Michael and I would so appreciate your help in sharing this initiative both online and offline with your friends, neighbours, and family.
For those interested and able to give financially, please know that every dollar given is appreciated and it adds up!
To give, please send an e-transfer to smallholdingsfarm@gmail.com noting in the message that your monies are a contribution to the “Local Families Initiative.” You are also welcome to give by cheque made out to Small Holdings Farm, noting in the memo line “Local Families Initiative.”
Thank you very much for your support of this community initiative and of our farm.
Warmly,
Keltie & Michael