NEW YORK STATE
FARM PARTNERS
Spotlight on local farmers
The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH) is leveraging a Department of Agriculture & Markets grant to spotlight farmers’ crucial roles in strengthening New York’s food supply chain. This initiative, part of the New York Food for New York Families Program, aims to boost local and disadvantaged producers by expanding their economic opportunities and market access, ensuring the delivery of healthy food to needy areas. TCAH’s campaign emphasizes the critical impact of these farmers in addressing food insecurity and advancing sustainable agriculture, contributing to a fairer and more robust food ecosystem.
“If I know anything, it’s food. I ate Farm Fresh Caribbean kale for dinner last week. It was absolutely fresh and delicious. I can’t wait to have more!”
– Pugh F.
THE FARMERS
The Campaign Against Hunger (TCAH) is proud to showcase resilient farmers from historically disadvantaged groups, including Black and Veteran communities in New York State. Despite facing challenges like limited land access and market barriers, these farmers are committed to sustainable agriculture, enriching local food systems and community health with their traditional knowledge and innovative practices. TCAH’s initiatives aim to support this vital diversity in farming.
Rise & Root Farm, a QTBIPOC-led cooperative in Orange County, NY, merges social justice with sustainable farming. Founded by four diverse women, the farm emphasizes community, healing through food, and dismantling systemic oppression. Celebrating inclusivity, they connect urban and rural worlds, advocating for equitable food access and nurturing collective growth beyond city boundaries.
Wil, a proud black farmer, runs Moss Fresh Fruit & Vegetables in Western NY with family support, including his Marine veteran brother, Michael. With over 40 years of experience, Wil’s expertise spans all farming stages and real estate management. He holds an MBA and actively contributes to the Rochester Public Market.
Rafael Aponte, an Afro-Puerto Rican urban agriculture graduate, transformed 30 acres in Freeville, NY, into Rocky Acres Community Farm.
Dedicated to food justice and education, his farm provides sustainable local produce and meats, embodying his commitment to bridging urban-rural divides and promoting equitable food access across communities.
Iridescent Earth Collective (IEC), led by Kitty and Jessica, a Queer, Black, and Latinx duo from the Bronx, manages 3 acres in upstate New York.
With expertise in farming and community organizing, they focus on vegetable production, habitat restoration, and expanding local food networks, evolving from their Bronx Community Farm Hub initiative.
Black Yard Farm, focused on empowering the Black and African Diaspora communities, is revolutionizing agriculture with experienced Black farmers at its helm.
Offering over 50 varieties of produce and pastured livestock, it provides education, hands-on experiences, and mentorship, fostering a culturally relevant, autonomous food system and reconnecting people with nature.
Farm Fresh Caribbean Grower, situated in the Hudson Valley, specializes in a variety of vegetables, especially greens like collard, Swiss chard, and kale, and is noted for their unique Callaloo.
Dedicated to aiding underprivileged communities, they offer bulk pricing and supply local food pantries, enhancing regional food security.
Orinoco Cattle Products & Farms, established in 2017 in Delaware County’s Catskills Mountains, practices ecologically sound livestock farming.
Specializing in 100% grass-fed cattle with a focus on soil health and resilience, the farm uses a closed production model from calf-raising to processing, delivering premium, antibiotic-free beef.
Trinity Farm in Clintondale, New York, showcases David Haughton’s agricultural devotion. Established in 1997, the farm, expanding from 30 to 90 acres, specializes in fruits, vegetables, and eggs. Haughton, blending Jamaican farming roots with sustainable practices, serves a broad audience through markets and partnerships, embodying a commitment to community and agricultural innovation.
Liberation Farm, led by Nadia and Omowale, is a beacon of sustainable agriculture and social justice. This vibrant farm champions community strength and innovation, focusing on organic produce and the principles of equity. It stands as a testament to the transformative power of farming, committed to nurturing the land, fostering community ties, and promoting environmental stewardship through its dedication to organic practices.