Sovereignty through Skills Belonging through Relationship Community through Service
Info@Foundation-Farms.org
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Foundation Farms
Farmer in Residence Program
The Foundation Farms "Farmer in Residence" Program (FIR) is a systemic solution to the twin challenges that many community gardens face- engaging programming and maintenance. We've seen when that dedicated volunteer moves on and greenhouses become storage places for desks and chairs. The FIR provides a systemic solution to those challenges.
By connecting a FIR with a service agency, we're able to assist in integrating food skills into their built environment through efficient design, installation, engaging programs and community-led maintenance. Farmers in Residence can be part of the Incubator Farm Program.....or not. This allows folks the flexibility to work with us for a season both on the farm and off, under the guidance of our Executive Director. If you're interested in farming, community organizing, social services- or just want to have a dynamic experience helping folks who are helping your neighbors, then the Farmer in Residence Program might be the program for you!
The Outdoor Classroom at The Boys and Girls Club of Lewis County
Lead FIR: Dr Julie Gullett
This fantastic space was developed as a result of Dr. Gullett's doctoral project in 2025. Through a visioning process with the BGC staff and families, the area with a few raised beds has turned into an Outdoor Classroom that will address the challenges of Security, Shade, Seating and Study areas. Dr Gullett and an additional FIR will be providing semi-monthly lessons that are designed specifically for the BGC staff and families. In addition, Foundation Farms will host monthly "Maintenance Mobs" where the broader community can come together to help maintain the space. We're excited to see how the BGC staff and families enjoy this space!
Shalom Village
Hope Housing Collaborative of Lewis County's Transitional Housing Community
Foundation Farms is thrilled to be working on this innovative project along with a number of churches in Lewis County. Six tiny homes flank a central Community Building which will house wrap-around services for the 12 guests. Designed to provide a place of safety and planning, folks will be able to be supported as they develop skills and stability. Foundation Farms is working to design six different "zones" that will embody the three tenants. Areas to develop food skills, like a community garden, spaces to reflect in the Meditation Garden, as well as innovative bioswale/rain garden design. We are thrilled to be part of this project and working with our neighbors to model an innovative solution to the housing crisis.
Farm Fresh Food Kits at Chehalis Manor
Connecting Direct Sale Farmers with Seniors in Need
Chehalis Manor is near and dear to the Seedpod Farm-ily as fresh veg has been donated throughout the summer and fall seasons as a part of Seedpod Farm's Servant Share CSA. Like many seniors, the recent elimination of food programs effected the residents at Chehalis Manor. We stepped in with another innovative program that furnished fresh produce from local, direct sale farms in Lewis County creating meal kits that were delivered weekly. A newsletter shared ingredient highlights, recipes, and the "story" of the farm. As the weeks went on, residents came out of their apartments early to visit prior to food pick-up. They began to share meals and became closer as neighbors. It was another proof of concept that the three tenants- Sovereignty through Skills, Belonging through Relationship and Community through Service, can apply to a variety of contexts. We're excited to partner with Chehalis Manor again this year and see how we can incorporate gardening through the Farmer in Residence Program.
To Be Determined
Do you know of an organization that could benefit from Foundation Farm's Farmer in Residence Program?
We'd love to help!
