Phoenix Community Farm (PCF) received a $10,000 grant from the Midland Area Community Foundation’s Hemlock Semiconductor Donor-Advised Fund on April 8.
This grant enabled PCF to purchase the equipment and supplies needed to generate a revenue stream that will be reinjected into the organization. This includes starting sales of cut flowers, perennials, annual flower seeds/bulbs, pumpkins and produce. The funds will jump-start these plans by covering start-up costs.
The funds will allow the farm to continue serving the community, donating tons of fresh produce and education, starting a business to support operations financially. Flower sales have already started with Phoenix Friend membership sales through www.phoenixcommunityfarm.com and sales at Fill and BALANCED Pilates and Wellness Boutique.
“These funds represent the next step not only for our organization but for a healthier and more resilient Midland,” said CPF Chief Executive Beth DeVries. “This grant allows us to create a sustainable program, ensuring that we can continue our mission. We are grateful to the donors of the Hemlock Semiconductor Donor-Advised Fund and the Midland Area Community Foundation for their support of our mission to grow healthy together.
PCF’s mission is to meet the fundamental need for fresh and healthy products. They grow and share products, as well as engage in education to empower the community to grow healthy together. It is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit farm that serves the Midland community.
One in three households in Midland County struggle to meet their basic needs, forcing them to make the difficult decision between paying their bills and buying food for their family. PCF envisions a sustainable and vibrant community that grows and eats healthy food together.
Community members can get involved in improving food security in Midland by volunteering at PCF. Regular volunteer hours are Mondays and Thursdays from 9 a.m. to 11 a.m. and Tuesdays from 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. Volunteers of all levels are welcome.
June 17 is National Eat Your Vegetables Day and PCF celebrates Grow Healthy Week June 13-17. Karen Beougher, an MSU Master Gardener student, will provide a Contain Your Gardening Excitement container gardening class on Tuesday, June 14 at 6 p.m. On Wednesday, June 15, members of the community can meet PCF at its non-profit organization’s booth at the Farmers Market. The week-long celebration ends June 17 with an open house from 5:30 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. and a vegetable tasting for Eat Your Vegetables Day.
Donations are accepted online at phoenixcommunityfarm.com, in the Farm Stand donation box at 919 Smith Road outside Windover High School, and by mail at 2014 N. Saginaw Rd., #323, Midland, MI 48640. Flower sales are underway at the Fill and BALANCED Pilates and Wellness store. Visit www.phoenixcommunityfarm.com to sign up for the newsletter or to become a member.
Learn more at phoenixcommunityfarm.com and stay informed by liking their page on Facebook and following them on Instagram @phoenixcommunityfarm.
