On Solid Ground
In October we were surprised to discover a former football field for sale just down the road from our farmhouse in Creston. Knowing this was one of the last remaining greenspaces in the neighborhood, we moved quickly to secure the property. This new land will allow us to bring a majority of our farm production back into the city, but this unexpected gift has us imagining even more. Our capital campaign, On Solid Ground, invites you to dream with us. What if this space could be the launch pad for a new urban agriculture training center? We are dreaming big, will you join us?
Imagine With Us
…imagine a revolution in our communities where young adults are equipped to change the world through the art of farming, and I believe this beautiful agricultural movement will begin right in the heart of our neighborhood.
– Ricardo Tavárez, Executive Director
See The Vision
Aerial views of the new site are included in this promo video!
Phase 1
Land Acquisition (2024)
We are purchasing a 5-acre former football field only a mile away from our Farmhouse location for $400,000. With overwhelming support from the community we have already secured $100,000 for our down payment. Gifts received beyond our year-end goal will go to the principal of our loan.
Phase 2
Farm Development (2025)
The goal of phase two is to build the infrastructure needed to start farming the site in 2026. Needs include a native plant border, fencing, farm equipment, electrical service, a well, high tunnels, and an irrigation system.
Phase 3
Education & Production (2026)
Our dream is to build an environmentally sustainable farm education center with a greenhouse, washing/pack area, solar panels, and cold storage to bring our programming to the next level.
New City Farm: Twelve Years of Impact
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$481,470
Youth Wages
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228
Youth Employees
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640,000 lbs.
Fresh Produce
My experience with New City Neighbors, from being a youth employee to one of the apprentices, has been incredibly impactful. Working here has taught me not only about sustainable farming and teamwork but also the value of community involvement/building and giving back. As an apprentice, I’ve had the chance to take on greater responsibilities from my mentors, and see the positive impact I could truly make. This journey has been a powerful foundation for not just my professional growth, but personal as well.
I’ve received a lot, but have been able to give back as well. I appreciated how the farm apprentice program isn’t just one way. I’ve never been in a job where people care.
Working at New City Neighbors has introduced me to a community of people like me, passionate about food access and youth development. Through the farm apprenticeship I have learned many aspects of growing food. I have also come to treasure what it means to be a part of a community that takes care of each other. The hands on experience I’ve gained through the apprenticeship will benefit my future in farming and gives me a greater appreciation for the earth and the hands that grow the food we eat.