During a recent meeting of the Ithaca Urban Renewal Agency (IURA) Board, discussions centered around the critical role of local agriculture in addressing food insecurity in the community. The meeting featured a presentation from West Ham Farm, which operates a 10-acre organic farm in the town of Vitaka. The farm has been a significant player in providing fresh produce to low-income families through its Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program and partnerships with local organizations.

West Ham Farm's CSA program serves 250 households, including over 100 low-income families who receive subsidized shares. The farm has been able to distribute more than $130,000 worth of free produce in 2024, thanks to a combination of state grants and private donations. However, the farm recently faced a setback when it was informed that its funding for 2025 would be paused, prompting a need to revise its budget.

The farm is seeking $79,200 in funding to support two specific initiatives: pantry shares and Latino community shares. These programs aim to provide fresh produce to families who may lack reliable transportation or face cultural barriers in accessing food pantries. By partnering with local organizations such as the Southside Community Center and the Latino Civics Association, West Ham Farm aims to ensure that healthy food is accessible to all community members.

The pantry shares are designed to allow food pantries to distribute a variety of produce more freely, rather than relying on individual CSA boxes. This approach has proven effective in reaching a larger audience. The Latino community shares, on the other hand, cater specifically to larger families, offering culturally appropriate foods and recipes in Spanish.

The board members expressed interest in the farm's operations and the impact of its programs. Questions arose regarding the acceptance of SNAP benefits and how the farm tracks income and residency for participants. While West Ham Farm does not directly accept SNAP, it collaborates with the Ithaca Farmers Market to facilitate the use of benefits.

The discussions highlighted the importance of local agriculture in combating food insecurity and the need for continued support for programs that prioritize access to fresh, nutritious food. As West Ham Farm navigates funding challenges, its commitment to serving the community remains steadfast, emphasizing the dignity of providing high-quality produce to those in need.

In conclusion, the IURA Board's engagement with West Ham Farm underscores the vital connection between local farming initiatives and community health. The anticipated funding decisions will play a crucial role in determining the future of these programs and their ability to serve Ithaca's most vulnerable populations.