1,500 to 2,500 miles—that is the estimated distance food on the typical American’s plate has traveled from the farm where it was produced. Of course, since California is still the food basket of the nation, our average “food mileage” could be less.

One of the shortest, fastest, freshest routes from farm to plate is via CSA—Community Supported Agriculture. It is such a UU thing to do, too! And it is available to us at UUCR. Matter of fact, several UUCR families are already receiving the organically grown fruits and vegetables from one of the CSA farms in our area.

Community Supported Agriculture is a direct relationship between the farmer and the consumer with the purpose of creating sustainability. By going to one of the web sites below, you can sign up to pay for and receive weekly or bi-weekly boxes of organic produce (a mix of fruits and vegetables grown on the farm). What produce is included will depend on what is in season and the elements. Our direct participation is critical to the continued long-term viability of the farm.

Each farm listed has a drop point in Riverside. At the present time, there are no known CSA farms delivering to San Bernardino sites. That could change if enough patrons were available to warrant a drop point somewhere in the area. Here are the two farms servicing Riverside: (1) Tierra Miguel Foundation Farm located in Pauma Valley, CA, (760) 742-4213 and (2) Garden of Eden Organic Farm located in Vista, CA. (760) 742-4213. Registration is by internet, so you are encouraged to visit these sites and register right now. This is simply a great way to walk the talk.