Just Roots, Inc.

 
 

 

Established in 2011 on 61-acres at the Greenfield Community Farm, Just Roots is a nonprofit community organization working to make healthy local food more accessible in a number of meaningful ways. Just Roots operates the largest SNAP-enrolled CSA farm share program in the Commonwealth. Through their “Farm to Family” CSA home delivery program, they overcome geographic boundaries faced by those in the area who are unable to otherwise access high-quality, affordable, and nutritious food. They deliver to MassHealth recipients that are designated as food insecure in Hampden and Hampshire Counties. Just Roots improves affordability for customers by accepting SNAP, HIP, and allowing customers to pay for any remaining amount in installments over the course of the season. CSA boxes are also subsidized for families that are income eligible but do not qualify for SNAP.

The MFTP grant allowed Just Roots to purchase an energy-efficient walk-in cooler for storage purposes.

In partnership with the FCCDC, Just Roots put a mobile market on the road in 2019 to reach low-income, affordable housing residents in Greenfield that have noted transportation barriers. In 2020, Just Roots began offering home delivery and are now delivering more than 130 of their 250 CSA shares directly to the doors of customers in Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties. 

Fast Facts:

  • 475 families served in 2021

  • Five Market stops across Franklin, Hampshire and Hampden counties

  • Grow their produce for sale, and source from 20 local farmers to diversify their CSA offerings

  • Ensure foods are culturally familiar and that they are growing more than enough for their membership

Leaf Fund