Our philosophy on food is simple:  the closer to the earth we eat– the more whole, real foods like fruits and vegetables we eat– the better we are going to feel.  I believe this is as true for wealthy suburbanites who can afford lots of organic produce as it is for those who fall below the poverty line and don’t know how they’re going to buy their next meal.

Shalom Farms is a nonprofit community farm in the Richmond area with goals of providing quality food to low-income urban neighborhoods, building community, and improving the self-sufficiency of those involved.

Shalom Farms relies heavily on volunteers to help with the farm and ultimately provide food to those in need, and Andrew and I had the pleasure of being part of a team from our church that worked with them this Saturday.  Despite the February chill that’s still in the air, they are hard at work preparing for the growing season.  They’ve begun seeding some early crops (like broccoli, which can grow when it’s a little cooler.)  We were given a tour of their heated greenhouse and had the opportunity to taste test some freshly-picked arugula.  We were also kept company by a bunch of friendly chickens and two crazy cats.  Just another day on the farm.

Our tasks for the day were mulching a few rows of crops and thinning the raspberry and blackberry bushes.

Photo by/stolen from Evan Taylor…thanks, Evan 😉

Despite my nose running like a faucet from the cold, it was an awesome morning!  We were able to accomplish a lot, and it was cool to know that we were laying some groundwork for what will ultimately provide quality food to those who need it.  What an unexpected way to serve God!

The team

Again, Shalom Farms relies heavily on volunteers, so if you live in the Richmond area and would like to part of this great organization, I know they would love to hear from you!

Our morning at the farm inspired our evening activities, but more on that later. 🙂