How purchasing directly from local farmers can reduce your grocery bills.

The Benefits of Community Supported Agriculture in Detroit

As the nation debates the impact of tariffs on food prices, residents have a proactive solution—**Community Supported Agriculture (CSA)** programs that connect consumers directly with local farmers. This approach not only ensures fresher products but also saves both time and money.

Springtime in Metro Detroit

The arrival of spring marks a vibrant time in metro Detroit as farmers and gardening enthusiasts eagerly work to plant their seedlings. One such example is the husband and wife duo, Mark and Alicia-Candi Fentress, who are deeply committed to transforming their almost bare land into a flourishing garden. Their farm, **Corn Wine and Oil Farms**, located in close proximity to Marygrove Schools, illustrates the beauty of local agriculture.

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Growing an Educational Haven

Mark describes their efforts as creating a **“food forest,”** a space rich in produce where children, from Pre-K to college, have the chance to pick fruit directly from the trees. **Alicia-Candi** emphasizes the importance of educating the community on the necessity of consuming fresh, local foods. “Everyone should be eating from their zip code,” she asserts, showcasing an awareness of the nutritional benefits of locally sourced produce.

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The Essence of Community Supported Agriculture

**Community Supported Agriculture** programs like those at CWO Farms aim to build relationships between farmers and consumers. These programs essentially operate by allowing customers to pay a lump sum prior to the planting season and then receive a box of produce weekly throughout the season. **Hailey Lamb**, with the Michigan Farmers Market Association, explains that customers can choose their preferences or receive a curated selection from the farmers.

Financial Savings and Freshness

Participating in a CSA program can lead to significant savings. For example, the City Commons CSA runs for **20 weeks**, costing slightly over **$700**. Alternatively, opting for bi-weekly deliveries lowers the cost to around **$390**. “Each box can easily meet the produce needs for a family of five,” Mark notes, emphasizing that the proximity of farm to table can take merely **two days**.

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Time to Sign Up for CSA Programs

The pick-up season generally runs from **June to November**, making now the perfect time to sign up for local CSA programs. If you want to explore participating CSAs in your vicinity, click here.

Your Voice Matters

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