Urban farm with free produce for neighbors gets Gannett Foundation grant to branch out
“There’s a freedom that not only comes with learning how to farm but with letting people know that these foods … are probably better for you,” says Daniels.
Zulekha Nathoo
USA TODAY
Feb 15, 2022
Excerpt:
ASBURY PARK, N.J. — It’s still hard for some to believe, but the produce at Kula Urban Farm’s ‘Farm Without Borders’ — from raspberries to radishes — is offered to residents for free.
“There’s really no fence, no gate, nothing and people can walk right in there,” says founder Matthias van Oosterhout. “We have had no vandalism whatsoever.”
The urban farm serves nearby low-income communities by inviting neighbors to pick fresh fruit, vegetables and herbs for their next meals at no cost. Local pantries also get donations of fresh produce from the gardens year-round. The urban oasis hires individuals who face barriers entering the workforce, such as those who have served time in prison.
Interfaith Neighbors, the nonprofit umbrella organization which runs the social enterprise, is receiving $100,000 from the Gannett Foundation’s A Community Thrives program to expand the farm.
“We think this is a great template for cities and towns around the U.S. to get behind and to really start doing sustainable farming for your community as well,” says staff member Matt Daniels.
Kula Urban Farm plans to set up an outdoor pavilion that can be used to host farm-to-table dinners, workshops and other community gatherings. The venture will help subsidize the Farm Without Borders and educate the public about the benefits of eating fresh.
