The Organic Produce Stand is hosted by Patterson Park Public Charter School, a local public school located on the north side of Patterson Park. It is part of a growing movement known as Community Supported Agriculture.

Community Supported Agriculture consists of a community of individuals who pledge support to a farm operation so that the farmland becomes, in a sense, the community’s farm, with the growers and consumers providing mutual support and sharing the risks and benefits of food production. Community members purchase a “share” from a local farmer in advance of the growing season, which covers anticipated costs of farm operation. In return, members receive a portion of the farm’s bounty throughout the growing season, as well as the satisfaction gained from reconnecting to the land and participating directly in food production.

Members also share in the risks of farming, including poor harvests due to unfavorable weather or pests. By direct sales to community members, who have provided the farmer with working capital in advance, growers receive better prices for their crops, gain some financial security, and are relieved of much of the burden of marketing.

Our Local Farm Partner

Our local farm partner is One Straw Farm, the largest organic vegetable farm in Maryland. The farm has been tended by Drew and Joan Norman since 1985. More farm information is available on their website: www.onestrawfarm.com.

How it Works

Members purchase a “share” in advance of the growing season. The price for the 2009 season is $485 if you join by March 1 and $550 if joined after March 1. You can “share a share” with one or more families and split the cost and each week’s bounty. Members receive 8 items a week, selected by the farm, from June 9 through November 17.

Produce varies from week to week, depending upon what naturally grows during that time of year. The Farm grows a range of items and a general harvest schedule is available on their website at www.onestrawfarm.com. Please note that there is no guarantee that you will receive all of these items.

Our Pickup Date and Time

Our members pick up their share at the school located at 27 N. Lakewood Avenue every Tuesday between 2:30 and 6:00 p.m.

How to Become a Member

1. Complete an online application and pay with a credit card at: http://onestrawfarm.smallfarmcentral.com

2. Select the option “Pick Up Site—Full Share”—EVEN if you are “sharing a share” with someone. When you get to the screen that asks for your name, just enter the names of ALL the people sharing your share.

3. Select PPPCS under the list for “Tuesday.”*If you would prefer a paper application and to pay by check, email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .

Questions or Need Help Becoming A Member?

Contact Christina Moylan at 410-354-6961 or This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it