In an attempt to raise awareness of food issues and foster Community Supported Agriculture (CSA), the Sisters of Charity of New York hosted a first-of-its-kind volunteer program at their Sisters Hill Farm in north Dutchess County, NY. (See 4 minute video).

After a successful one-day farm volunteer opportunity in May through Charity in the City, volunteers expressed they wanted more and suggested a more long-term program.

The four volunteers selected came from diverse backgrounds but share the common goal of learning more about organic agriculture and applying it to their lives. Days were spent hard at work in the fields and evenings were a time for watching educational DVDs, reading material on Ecology and Spirituality, group reflection and discussion.

The volunteers shared quarters in the old farmhouse with the Sisters, shared delicious meals together from the bountiful harvest of the farm, worked hard planting and harvesting, and were taught all the ins and outs of running an organic, community-supported farm. By the end of the week a unique community had formed, and all involved plan to keep in touch with each other as they carry this invaluable knowledge into their future work.

Sister Mary Ann Garisto, SC NY collaborated with Sister Margaret Coppenrath, SC Halifax and Sister Mary Katherine Hamm, SC Halifax, announcing the opportunity via a variety of Catholic publications as well as the Northeast Organic Farmers Association of New York website.

For more information about food issues and advocacy from a Vincentian perspective, visit VinFormation’s new Ethics of Food section at http://vinformation.famvin.org/food/

For more information on Sisters Hill Farm, visit http://sistershillfarm.org/