How to Buy Produce or Join the CSA at Homeless Garden Project

Updated

You can buy Homeless Garden Project produce in three ways: at the Natural Bridges Farm Stand, through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) membership during the growing season, or by eating at select local restaurants that serve the farm's vegetables. The CSA is the option to choose if you want a recurring share of organic, seasonal vegetables; the Farm Stand suits one-off or occasional purchases. The project states that 2024 CSA memberships are available now.

Where the Farm Is

The working farm is Natural Bridges Farm, on the West Side of Santa Cruz near Natural Bridges State Park. That is the location tied to the Farm Stand and the growing operation behind the CSA.

Ways to Get the Produce

Option What you get Best for
Farm Stand Fresh organic vegetables, herbs, and flowers Buying in person, no commitment
CSA membership Organic, seasonal vegetables through a membership during the growing season A regular supply across the season
Select local restaurants Farm vegetables served on menus Trying the produce without buying direct
Online shop / stores Handmade crafts and gifts made by people in the employment training program Gifts, with proceeds supporting the programs

Note the distinction: the online shop and physical stores are where the project sells products and handmade crafts, not the fresh produce. Fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers come through the Farm Stand, CSA, and select restaurants.

Joining the CSA

  1. Go to the Homeless Garden Project site and open the CSA section.
  2. Confirm you are within the growing season, since the CSA runs during it.
  3. Choose the membership and complete sign-up — the site states 2024 memberships are available now.
  4. Collect your share of organic, seasonal vegetables as arranged through the membership.

If you are unsure which option fits, start with the Farm Stand to sample what is in season, then move to a CSA membership if you want a steady supply.

What Your Money Supports

Homeless Garden Project describes itself as an established non-profit providing job training, transitional employment, and support services to people experiencing homelessness in Santa Cruz. The employment training program focuses on stewardship, conservation, and regenerative agricultural principles. Proceeds from the products and crafts go toward supporting these programs, so buying produce or crafts and joining the CSA both feed into the same mission.

Other Ways to Take Part

  • Volunteer: one-time and ongoing positions, with interests ranging from farming and retail to special events, social work, and technology. Students, families, and groups are all included.
  • Donate: the site lists Ways To Give for those who want to support the work directly.
  • Stay informed: the project runs social media and event updates for people who want to follow along.

For current Farm Stand hours, CSA pricing, share sizes, and pickup details, check the Homeless Garden Project website directly, since those specifics are set by the organization and can change by season.