About the Farmer's Table
Supporting Local Farms
At the Farmer’s Table, we support the sustainability of the local farmers that nourish us. Born from a vision to strengthen the ties between Northwest Connecticut's local farmers and its residents, our mission has evolved into actively supporting these vital contributors by identifying their needs and highlighting their indispensable role within our communities. Our efforts encompass providing educational resources, facilitating networking events, and offering marketing assistance to ensure farmers possess the essential tools for success. Furthermore, we bolster nutrition programs for those facing food insecurity by procuring fresh produce from the Northwest Connecticut Regional Food Hub. These efforts showcase our firm commitment to reinforcing the relationship between farmers and the community, while pushing for a sustainable and accessible food system for everyone.
We recognize that agriculture's vibrancy and sustainability hinge on the diversity of its practices, from crop farming and livestock raising to horticulture and beyond. By championing all forms of farming, we aim to sustain and grow the agricultural presence in our region, acknowledging the essential role that every farmer plays in this critical ecosystem.
We support the sustainability of local farmers who nourish us
Our mission is deeply rooted in the principle of sustainability—not just in environmental terms but also in fostering a sustainable local economy where farmers are pivotal. By focusing on the sustainability of those who cultivate our food, we ensure that our community remains nourished and vibrant.
A future where local farmers thrive and are celebrated
Our vision is a future where local farmers thrive and are celebrated for their resourcefulness, innovation, and commitment to nourishing our communities.
We envision a future where agriculture is recognized not just as a means to produce food, but as a vital contributor to the health and prosperity of our community. In this future, farmers are lauded as innovators and essential caretakers of our land, continually adapting and thriving in a changing world.
A Unified Approach to Sustainable Agriculture
At the heart of our mission lies the farmer—the cornerstone of our community and the steward of the land. These four key initiatives represent a cohesive and interconnected strategy that supports our mission and moves us toward our vision.
By championing these initiatives, The Farmer’s Table strives to create a sustainable, thriving future for local agriculture, ensuring our farmers are not only supported but celebrated for their critical role in our community.
Empowering Farmers Today and Tomorrow
Empowering Farmers Today and Tomorrow: We focus on providing education, mentorship, and the pursuit of innovative practices to prepare both current and future farmers for success in a dynamic agricultural landscape.
Building Connections
Through farmer networking and community engagement, we promote the sharing of stories and experiences that bridge the gap between urban and rural perspectives, fostering a deeper understanding and appreciation of farming.
Strengthening Food Systems and Equitable Access
We are committed to enhancing local resilience by supporting robust, sustainable food systems that ensure equitable access to fresh, healthy food for all members of our community.
Navigating Challenges
Effective crisis management, along with proactive resource identification and fortification, prepares our farmers to face and overcome the challenges that impact agriculture today and in the future.
Our Team
Our team began as a dedicated group of volunteers, united by a commitment to support the farmers of Northwest Connecticut. As we strive to expand our programs and deepen our impact, we recognize the growing need to develop a paid team. This evolution will enable us to provide more consistent and comprehensive support to our farmers every day. Currently, every member contributes their time and skills voluntarily, driven by a shared mission to sustain and celebrate local farmers. Our goal is to secure the necessary funding to transform this volunteer spirit into a full-time dedication, ensuring the ongoing prosperity of our farming community.
Our Volunteers
Helen Bartlett, Washington
Meg Harpin, Litchfield
Kay Carroll, Litchfield
Ellen Lovejoy, Washington
Melissa Castonguay, Washington
Philippa F. Malkin, Bridgewater
Rebecca Doh, Washington
Susie Markert, Washington
Sunday Fisher, Sherman
Patricia McTague, Litchfield
Victoria C. Rowan, Warren
Advisory Committee
Julie Bailey, Helen Bartlett, Kay Carroll, Sunday Fisher, Renee Giroux, Peter Litwin, Ronnie Maddalena, Ben Paletsky, Victoria Rowan & Howard Rosenfeld