Feeding the Community in Uncertain Times

Why Farms & Food Pantries Matter More Than Ever
As our country grapples with a prolonged federal government shutdown, the ripple effects are being felt deeply in our food system. More than 42 million Americans rely on the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to put meals on the table and as of November 1st, many of those benefits have been delayed or halted entirely. 

This means families are facing a double challenge: rising costs at the grocery store, and less federal support than ever before. Food pantries and local farms are being asked to fill the gap. But even they say they cannot fully replace the scale of federal programs like SNAP.

Here at  Bardwell Farm , our mission has always been simple: grow good food for our neighbors, keep it local, and keep it affordable. Now, in light of this crisis, that mission is more critical than ever.

How You Can Help
We’re running our Food & Things Drive now through December 30th, in partnership with our charity, Carrots 2 Carrots. All donations go toward purchasing local vegetables grown right here or nearby and distributing them to local food pantries and survival centers.

Items needed include:

• Shelf-stable foods: soups, canned vegetables/fruit, beans, tuna, canned meats
• Dry goods: rice, pasta, oatmeal, whole-grain cereal
• Proteins: peanut butter, canned chicken/fish, dried beans & lentils
• Snacks: granola bars, trail mix, nuts, dried fruit, crackers, fruit cups
• Cooking basics: pasta sauce, cooking oils, seasonings
• Beverages: juice boxes, coffee, tea, powdered milk
• Non-food essentials: deodorant, razors, shampoo/conditioner, tampons/pads, warm socks, hats, gloves, scarves
• Baby items & pet supplies: baby food, formula, diapers, pet food & supplies

Drop-off location: backside of the farmstand at Bardwell Farm.

Why This Matters
When SNAP benefits are interrupted as they are now local farms and food pantries become a lifeline. Not only does this support families in need, but it also supports our local agricultural economy. Every dollar donated helps buy fresh, regionally-grown produce that fuels both healthy people and a healthy economy.

By contributing to this drive whether you donate goods, purchase a Bardwell Farm calendar (announcing soon!), donate a Thanksgiving Vegetable Box, or give directly to Carrots 2 Carrots, you’re choosing to stand with your neighbors. You’re choosing to keep the food local. You’re choosing to ensure that this holiday season someone in our community doesn’t face hunger.

Thank You
From all of us at Bardwell Farm and Carrots 2 Carrots, thank you for your generosity, your community spirit, and your commitment to making a difference.

Together, we can grow hope 💚