What is a CSA?

As defined by the USDA:

In basic terms, CSA consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation so that the farmland becomes, either legally or spiritually, the community’s farm, with the growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production. Members or shareholders of the farm or garden pledge in advance to cover the anticipated costs of the farm operation and farmer’s salary. In return, they receive shares in the farm’s bounty throughout the growing season, as well as satisfaction gained from reconnecting to the land. Members also share in risks, including poor harvest due to unfavorable weather or pests.

Who are the Four Friends?

Four Friend’s CSA is a cooperative project of the farmers at Southsidce Community Land Trust’s Urban Edge Farm in Cranston and Pie Garden of Johnston & Exeter, Rhode Island.  Having worked along side each other for two seasons, we are happy to offer you a cooperative CSA for 2008.  We are a diverse group of farmers with talents in pie making, flower growing, chicken raising, bicycle mechanics, and much more, but the focus of the CSA will be on the products we grow on the farm.  We are Liz, Christina, Chang, Mis, Michele and Katie.

How does it work?

For twenty weeks, beginning June 17 through October 28, simply come to the farm every Tuesday from 4-7pm, 35 Pippin Orchard Road, Cranston, RI  to pick up your share(s).   If you happen to be away for a week, please give us advanced notice and we will bring your share to the Amos House in South Providence, or you can invite a friend or neighbor to pick up your share that week. 

What we are offering…

Each week you’ll receive a healthy portion of what the farms produce:  approximately half a bushel of veggies.  Due to the nature of our growing season, shares will be lighter in the spring and heavier in later months.  We estimate we’ll have 8-10 different items each week, with plenty of old standbys and some delectable rarities.

For more information please see:  www.fourfriendscsa.com or contact Christina at 781 603 4894 or via email 20001@cox.net.