ISSUE: West Side neighborhood residents face many barriers to becoming economically self-sufficient. The U.S. Census Bureau reports poverty rates of 15.4% in Census Tract 214 and 18.1% in Census Tract 215, compared to 9.2% in Stamford, 9.9% throughout Connecticut. Despite being in one of the wealthiest counties in the nation, Stamford faces many disparities in wealth, health, education, and food security among its growing and diverse population. Technological and social changes, along with traumatic national and global events, can further exasperate feelings of stress, isolation, and disconnection from one’s community.
WHAT HAS BEEN DONE: Beyond growing food, Fairgate Farm grows community. At the Farm, we work to foster community through regular gatherings with our volunteers, farm celebrations such as our annual Fairgate Farm Day, and special themed farm markets. These are opportunities for neighbors to meet and connect with each other and their local food system. Whether volunteering, attending a farm workshop or celebration, or doing your weekly shopping at our Farm Market, you are taking part in something bigger than any one person. You may make a friend, brighten someone’s day by showing you care, or indirectly feed a neighbor in need who you don’t even know. Fairgate Farm is a hub of human connection. Regardless of whether you are on the giving or receiving end, know that we’re all in this together.
IMPACT:
- Fairgate Farm is a hub of human connection
- Through volunteering, individuals find a sense of purpose and belonging, often building friendships and bonds with other volunteers
- Food donations and the Fairgate Farm Market help those in the community be less food secure
- Individuals being exposed to new foods and cultures
- Public space to connect to nature
