Behind the bustling streets of Peabody lies a hidden gem making a huge impact! Newhall Fields Community Farm is growing more than just vegetables; they’re cultivating hope and fighting hunger across the North Shore. But what makes their unique approach to sustainable farming so vital for local families?

Nestled discreetly behind the everyday bustle of Peabody, a transformative initiative is quietly combating food insecurity and fostering community resilience. Newhall Fields Community Farm, a six-acre parcel of city-owned, nonprofit-operated land, stands as a beacon of hope, dedicating its efforts to providing vital access to nutritious, locally grown produce for the North Shore region.

This unique agricultural endeavor operates with a clear mission: to strengthen community bonds through sustainable, regenerative farming practices, volunteer engagement, and educational opportunities. Two crucial acres of this land are specifically contracted to Newhall Fields Community Farm, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization at the forefront of this crucial work, emphasizing environmental stewardship alongside social impact.

The profound commitment of Newhall Fields to hunger relief is evident in its operational model. A staggering 70% of all produce harvested from the farm is directly donated to various hunger-relief organizations across the North Shore. Esteemed partners such as Citizen’s Inn/Haven from Hunger, Beverly Bootstraps, and The Salem Pantry regularly receive fresh, high-quality vegetables and herbs, making a tangible difference in the lives of countless families.

Beyond direct donations, the farm actively engages the broader Peabody MA community through accessible programs. They offer bi-weekly, community-supported agricultural-style farm shares for pickup, ensuring a consistent supply of fresh food. Additionally, PopUp Farm Stands are regularly established throughout the growing season, providing convenient points of access where produce is sold at affordable rates, prioritizing inclusivity for all residents.

Crucially, these PopUp Farm Stands are designed to support vulnerable populations by accepting various government-assisted food benefit programs. Community members can utilize their Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP), Healthy Incentives Program (HIP), and Farmer Market Nutrition Program (FMNP) coupons. This critical initiative directly benefits families experiencing food security challenges, senior citizens, and Women, Infants and Children (WIC) participants, bridging gaps in nutritional access.

In a dedicated effort to ensure no one is left behind, Newhall Fields collaborates extensively with the Peabody Council on Aging. This partnership facilitates essential transportation services from the Senior Center directly to the PopUp Farm Stands and back. This thoughtful arrangement specifically ensures that seniors can easily access fresh, local produce during the FMNP coupon-eligible season, which typically runs from August through October, enhancing their health and well-being.

Among its many features, Newhall Fields Farm boasts a truly remarkable herb garden, home to over 140 different varieties of perennial plants. This vibrant space not only adds to the farm’s aesthetic appeal but also significantly boosts its biodiversity, attracting a multitude of butterflies and pollinators. This rich ecosystem underscores the farm’s commitment to sustainable farming and ecological balance.

The herb garden also addresses a critical need for hunger relief North Shore families often face: access to expensive herbs rarely found in food pantries. Through strategic partnerships, such as with Chickadee Spice, which processes herbs into teas, blends, and spice mixes, Newhall Fields ensures these valuable resources reach those in need. They also supply fresh herbs to A&J King Artisan Bakers, further integrating into the local economy.

As a public space located on public land, the farm actively welcomes everyone. The serene herb garden, in particular, has become a cherished spot where community members gather for reflection, poetry, or meditation. While embracing its role as a communal sanctuary, Newhall Fields encourages all visitors to be mindful of cleaning up after themselves, preserving the beauty and accessibility of this invaluable local asset for years to come.