Arcadia Needs a Tractor to Train Military Vets! And produce food for low-income families

Creating a more equitable and sustainable food system by growing food, growing farmers, and dismantling barriers to accessing wholesome, local and sustainably grown foods.

The Problem

Arcadia is working on solutions to create a healthier, more environmentally sound and economically viable local food system. We grow food and we train military veterans to be farmers, adding to the supply. We turn children on to that food through field trips and farm camp (with a 37% increase in the number of kids who like to eat beets after they visit!) -- building demand for the healthy food we grow and promote. Finally, we hurdle the barriers that prevent people from getting their hands on the good stuff -- affordability and convenient locations with 10 regular Mobile Market stops in low-food access neighborhoods. We are fixing a system, not treating a symptom.

The Solution

Arcadia has reclaimed 25 acres of historic farmland in suburban Alexandria, and we use the land to grow 45 varieties of fruits and vegetables, as well as train military veterans to be farmers. Our tractor is not up to the job -- we bought it used and one important component -- the PTO, which operates our tiller, spreader and mower -- has broken three times. We need a new and better tractor, so we can train more farmers, and grow more food.