Eat Local First Kicks off CSA Promotions by Celebrating CSA Week

Joining a farm’s CSA is one of the most significant ways consumers can support local farmers and CSA Week is all about raising awareness of the importance of CSA. “Now more than ever, people recognize the value of local food that they can track to its source. CSA Week is all about connecting communities to their farmers and to the land their food comes from,” said Sadie Willis, coordinator of the CSA Innovation Network.  

CSA shares or “farm shares”, come in a variety of options - produce, fruit, fish, meat, eggs, dairy, even flowers across the seasons, with some farms even offering year-round options. “There’s something for everyone,” says Jess Meyer, Food and Farming Outreach Coordinator at Sustainable Connections, “and farmers often offer recipes and cooking tips so consumers can feel confident about enjoying the bounty they receive in each box.”

For those that wonder about affordability considering recent food price increases it is key to note that there are farms offering a sliding scale for payment, and the CSA Finder lists over 40 CSA programs that accept SNAP/EBT benefits for shares. Additionally, these local food boxes come in different sizes, frequencies, and season lengths.

Collaboration is at the heart of CSA, so you’ll find that many growers and producers work together to include each others’ products resulting in larger variety and diversity of products. Additionally, partnerships with local businesses and community partners that serve as pick up locations have increased accessibility for farmers while also building a stronger sense of community and adding to their loyal customer base.