Cultivating Community: How a Midland Farm is Nourishing Minds and BodiesJacob May's chance encounter with the Phoenix Community Farm in Midland, Michigan, sparked a personal journey that has since blossomed into a mission to empower his community through the transformative power of fresh, locally-grown produce. What started as a wrong turn has evolved into a heartwarming story of how one woman's vision to address food insecurity has inspired a ripple effect of positive change, touching the lives of students, volunteers, and families alike.

Unlocking the Potential of Local Produce

Sowing the Seeds of Change

Jacob May's personal experiences with food insecurity as a child led him to the Phoenix Community Farm, where he now serves as the farm and education manager. Recognizing the profound impact that access to fresh, nutritious food can have, May has dedicated himself to the farm's mission of growing and sharing produce while teaching community members the art of self-sustenance.

A Nurse's Vision Takes Root

The Phoenix Community Farm was founded in 2018 by Beth DeVries, a University of Michigan alum and nurse practitioner who recognized the pressing need for affordable, fresh produce in her community. Driven by her own upbringing in rural Michigan and the realization that one in three Midland residents struggle to put food on the table, DeVries set out to create a space where community members could learn to grow and preserve their own food.

Overcoming Early Challenges

The farm's early days were not without their challenges, as local deer feasted on the first harvest. However, DeVries persevered, and the subsequent harvests have been a bountiful success, with the farm donating over 105,000 pounds of produce to the community in 2022 alone. The farm's pay-what-you-can model ensures that fresh, healthy food is accessible to all, regardless of financial means.

Cultivating Community Partnerships

Recognizing the power of collaboration, DeVries has forged partnerships with local organizations to ensure the farm's produce reaches those in need. By working with groups like Hidden Harvest and Regrow Together, the farm is able to distribute its diverse array of fruits, vegetables, and flowers to a wide network of nonprofits and community programs, making a tangible difference in the lives of Midland residents.

Empowering the Next Generation

The Phoenix Community Farm's impact extends beyond the immediate community, as it has become an integral part of the educational landscape in Midland. Through a partnership with Windover High School, the farm hosts a community agriculture class, where students learn the ins and outs of small-scale farming, from soil science to harvesting techniques. These hands-on experiences not only teach valuable skills but also instill a deeper appreciation for the origins of their food.

Cultivating a Healthier Future

The Phoenix Community Farm's holistic approach to addressing food insecurity is not only nourishing bodies but also minds. By empowering community members to grow, prepare, and appreciate fresh, locally-sourced produce, the farm is sowing the seeds of a healthier, more sustainable future. As Jacob May and the dedicated team at the Phoenix Community Farm continue to expand their reach, their impact on the Midland community is sure to continue blossoming.