The Challenge
The Approach
By The Numbers
- Number of farm businesses now based at Urban Edge Farm: 11
- Amount invested in UEF capital improvements in 2018-19: 250,000
- Number of restaurants, markets and food businesses buying food from UEF farmers: 100
- Number of agricultural products grown on-site: 60
Preserve and Grow Agriculture Industries
UEF is unique in providing aspiring farmers with affordable leases, shared equipment, cold storage and mentorship in one the most expensive and densely populated states in the country.
Program Description
Southside Community Land Trust offers low-cost leases, farm equipment and technical assistance on parcels ranging from 1/4 to 3 acres at the 30-acre Urban Edge Farm in Cranston. SCLT is steadily clearing land at UEF for RI farmers who promise to use healthy growing practices to supply high-quality food to restaurants, farmers markets, food businesses, CSAs and residents of low-food access neighborhoods. Since 2007, UEF has provided land and training to 31 small-scale farmers, and has identified seven additional farmers who plan to move their operations to UEF in the next year.
UEF farmers produce an astonishing array of organically grown traditional and specialty crops, including “ethnic” produce not sold in grocery stores. Many were born outside the U.S. and began growing food in community gardens and urban farms in Providence and Pawtucket. After expanding their businesses at UEF, they have continued to sell to customers in their urban neighborhoods, helping them to maintain healthy, varied and culturally familiar diets.
Future Plans
This Rhode Island Story was prepared by Samantha Gable and Jenny Boone.