C.S.A. box - Community supported agriculture programs, fresh produce
 

C.S.A.s

Community supported agriculture programs (C.S.A.s) have grown in popularity as consumers seek to eat health, locally-grown produce and support local commerce. C.S.A.s involve community members pledging support to a local farm by promising to cover the costs of farming operations, and in effect, becoming a stakeholder of the farm, Packaged Facts said. In return, C.S.A. members receive fresh produce from the farm throughout the growing season.

“Direct sales to community members are beneficial to both farmers and buyers, as farmers can have better financial security through sharing the risks of potential bad crops, while buyers can have fresher produce with more variety than might be available in grocery stores, sometimes at a lower cost without middlemen,” Mr. Sprinkle said.