If you're in Seattle and want fresh produce while supporting local farmers, consider joining a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. CSAs offer regular shares of the harvest in exchange for a seasonal subscription fee, connecting farmers with the community, as per the City of Seattle report.
Founded by the Black horticulturalist Booker T. Whatley to aid Black farmers in the 1960s, the CSA model offers a range of produce boxes that might include not just vegetables and fruits but options like grains, flowers, and meats. It's a system that has increasingly addressed the labor shortages, land access issues, and environmental challenges facing Seattle's farmers, according to a City of Seattle report. There’s no strict deadline to sign up, but March sees a rush, and some programs are already full.
By investing in a CSA, consumers directly contribute funds crucial for farmers' early-season costs, effectively securing a stable income for growers throughout the season. Moreover, the City of Seattle's Food Action Plan champions CSAs for their role in boosting local economies, providing culturally relevant foods, and reducing the supply chain's length. The Office of Sustainability and Environment (OSE) does not affiliate with specific CSAs but maintains a list of citywide food programs energizing local produce access.
Signing up for a CSA is straightforward. Seattle residents interested can use the CSA Finder from Eat Local First, which lets you search by ZIP code to locate nearby pick-up points or farms that match your needs. Some CSAs cater to particular communities, such as Rainier Beach and the Central District, offering various payment options and support mechanisms. For example, Clean Greens Farm & Market distributes free produce to community residents in need and is operated by residents of Seattle's Central District, "founded by the Black Dollar Days Task Force," a statement obtained by the City of Seattle.
If you want to support a CSA that works with BIPOC farmers or local communities, the OSE recommends programs like Rainier Beach Action Coalition, Clean Greens Farm & Market, Viva Farms, Plant Based Food Share, Southeast Seattle Education Coalition’s Mother’s Day Weekend Flowers, and Snoqualmie Valley Farmers Cooperative. These CSAs offer benefits like discounted rates for low-income families and options to donate produce. You can find more details and sign up on their websites, listed on OSE’s resource page.
