Coastal Roots Farm kicks off 2021 strong

Coastal Roots Farm, a nonprofit Jewish community farm and education center in Encinitas, rang in the New Year raising $130,000 to support 7,800 local families.

The farm exceeded its initial $100,000 goal to feed 6,000 families, providing to a total of 7,800 families with 35,750 pounds of fresh, organic, nutrient-dense produce, grown on the farm. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, one in three San Diego households is hungry.

Children at a Farm Camp learn the joy of supporting the environment.

(Courtesy)

“At Coastal Roots Farm, we believe access to fresh, healthy food should not be a privilege for those with means, but a right for all,” said Javier Guerrero, Coastal Roots Farm’s president and CEO. “Our food system is in need of much repair, and we still have work to do, but we’re so happy we were able to help San Diego families this holiday season.”

San Diegans can continue to make a direct impact in the community by supporting the farm’s Regenerative Agriculture, Organic Food Distribution, Environmental Education, and Jewish Life initiatives. For general donations, visit www.coastalrootsfarm.org/support.

Additionally, the farm awarded more than six After-School Farm Camp scholarships to local kids this fall. Interested families should email Sharone Oren, education manager of Community Programs and Events at Sharone@coastalrootsfarm.org for scholarship information.

Spending time outdoors is crucial for the development of young children. Remote learning has created an even larger need to get little ones outside. Every day at Farm Camp includes different activities, games, snacks, songs, and science experiments, all in a safe, outdoor environment.

The farm’s “Farmers-in-Training” get to learn where their food comes from and how they can help change the world by getting their hands dirty and into the soil. Registration is now available for January through May. Sign up for one or more sessions; families can choose Monday/Wednesday or Tuesday/Thursday sessions. Two time slots are available – early afternoon from 1-4 p.m. with optional after-care 4-5 p.m. or late afternoon from 3-5 p.m.

Farm Camp follows all COVID-19 state regulations, ensuring a safe, protected, and fun environment. To learn more or to register, visit www.coastalrootsfarm.org/farm-camp.

Coastal Roots Farm is located at 441 Saxony Road in Encinitas. For more information, visit www.coastalrootsfarm.org.