Part I: What is a CSA? How does it work?
Is a CSA like a food coop?
No, although it is kind of like a buying club. The big difference is that in Community Supported Agriculture, there is a partnership between CSA members and the farmer. CSA members make their payment to the farmer for the season up front, so that the farmer can use the money for seed, equipment, repairs, etc. A food coop usually gets their food from wholesale distributors. CSA members know exactly who is growing their vegetables.
Yes, only pre-paid members can participate. There are no on-site sales of vegetables.
Can I still sign up after the season has started?
Our goal is to get the payments for the shares out to the farmer in a timely manner before the season begins, so that the farmer can use that money to buy equipment needed to harvest as well as pay the workers on their farm and prepare for the next season. Because of this, we do not accept late sign-ups.
Why do I have to volunteer?
Parkchester CSA is a completely volunteer-run organization. The core organizing team is a group of volunteers dedicated to sustainability and access to fresh food for the community by the community, and we are compensated solely by the satisfaction of bringing these goals into fruition. As such, we ask that other members volunteer to take care of distribution days so we can continue to be able to keep the cost of the shares low. Beyond these considerations, volunteering is also a way to connect with fellow CSA members and therefore the community at large. Many of us have stayed on in the CSA not just because of the benefits of delicious, naturally grown vegetables, but because we have created genuine connections with each other through volunteering and being involved in the CSA.
Is a CSA like a food coop?
No, although it is kind of like a buying club. The big difference is that in Community Supported Agriculture, there is a partnership between CSA members and the farmer. CSA members make their payment to the farmer for the season up front, so that the farmer can use the money for seed, equipment, repairs, etc. A food coop usually gets their food from wholesale distributors. CSA members know exactly who is growing their vegetables.
What is Just Food?
From the JustFood website (http://www.justfood.org): “Just Food is a non-profit organization that connects communities and local farms with the resources and support they need to make fresh, locally grown food accessible to all New Yorkers. Just Food provides regional farmers and food producers, CSA organizers and everyday eaters with the resources and support they need to establish and experience healthy food systems—in every neighborhood.”
Do I have to be a member to participate in the CSA?From the JustFood website (http://www.justfood.org): “Just Food is a non-profit organization that connects communities and local farms with the resources and support they need to make fresh, locally grown food accessible to all New Yorkers. Just Food provides regional farmers and food producers, CSA organizers and everyday eaters with the resources and support they need to establish and experience healthy food systems—in every neighborhood.”
Yes, only pre-paid members can participate. There are no on-site sales of vegetables.
Can I still sign up after the season has started?
Our goal is to get the payments for the shares out to the farmer in a timely manner before the season begins, so that the farmer can use that money to buy equipment needed to harvest as well as pay the workers on their farm and prepare for the next season. Because of this, we do not accept late sign-ups.
Why do I have to volunteer?
Parkchester CSA is a completely volunteer-run organization. The core organizing team is a group of volunteers dedicated to sustainability and access to fresh food for the community by the community, and we are compensated solely by the satisfaction of bringing these goals into fruition. As such, we ask that other members volunteer to take care of distribution days so we can continue to be able to keep the cost of the shares low. Beyond these considerations, volunteering is also a way to connect with fellow CSA members and therefore the community at large. Many of us have stayed on in the CSA not just because of the benefits of delicious, naturally grown vegetables, but because we have created genuine connections with each other through volunteering and being involved in the CSA.
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