Faith Farm CDC held its Grand Opening and CSA produce box kick-off Friday, June 23. Founded by Pastor Curtis Whittaker of Progressive Community Church, Faith Farms is located at 656 Carolina St. in Gary and offers fresh organic vegetables, herbs, organic chicken, duck eggs, and local raw organic honey.
“The work we do at Faith Farms is about God’s vision and love for our city,” said Faith Farm administrator Freida Graves. “We are feeding our community the healthy way and teaching generations how to grow their own gardens.”
The program also features a junior master gardener program for youth. Throughout the summer, participants will learn gardening techniques and assist with the maintenance of the farm. This includes planting, watering, feeding the animals and picking the harvest. Each receives a stipend and will graduate with a certificate in master gardening at the program’s conclusion.
“These young people are curious and ambitious,” said Whittaker. “The skills they are learning this summer will take them into adulthood and potentially present future employment opportunities in the farming industry. Most important, they can share what they have learned with their families and friends.”
Prior to the grand opening, Faith Farms accepted pre-paid orders for the first CSA boxes of the season. The cost is $30 a month without eggs and $35 with eggs. The boxes vary each month depending on the growing season. The program will take place until October 2022.
Faith Farm CDC had humble beginnings, starting out with a small group of volunteers and church members. Thanks to the support of grants and donations, the farm administration team has continued to grow over the past 10 years. The farm also features an outdoor refrigerator stocked with fresh produce and chicken for those who are in need, at no cost.
Community tours of the farm have become increasingly popular. Recently, students from the YWCA of NWI paid a visit where the children excitedly fed the animals, tasted mint plants and went through each greenhouse tent to learn the process of planting.
“We love teaching youth about agriculture and healthy eating while expanding their young minds,” added Graves.
About Faith Farm CDC
Faith Farms is an owned and operated farm of Progressive Community Church. Our farms grow fruits and vegetables year-round. All forms of payment are accepted as well as Snap and WIC. For more information, call 219-880-0850 or visit Faith CDC on Facebook.
