Alstede Farms contributed 2,634 pounds of produce to the Interfaith Food Pantry serving Morris County during the 2012 season.  In addition to its usual support of the Pantry, Alstede Farms offered its Highlands Harvest CSA members the option of donating any shares they were unable to pick up due to vacation plans or other changes in schedules.  The generosity of Alstede Farms CSA members made such a large produce donation possible.  The amount of fruits and vegetables donated is equivalent to four full shares per week to the food pantry.

“Thank you for reaching out to help those in need through your farming,” said Katy Galton, Interfaith’s Nutrition Educator. “Your efforts, combined with those of other local farmers and gardeners allowed us to offer our clients over 20,000 pounds of fresh produce during the year. This not only provides nutritious food for our clients but is also a great example of how individuals, families, and groups can creatively help meet their neighbors’ needs.”

“We value our place in the community,” said Kurt Alstede. “As an agricultural business, we are tied to the land.  We’ve invested in our farm and our future depends on being an active partner in our community.  And because of this, we have developed a philosophy of giving back to the community we are so committed to.  I’ve lived my whole life in Chester and am dedicated to a future that places us squarely in and connected to our community.”

Alstede Farms 

Alstede Farms is a family-owned working farm established in 1982. Alstede Farms produces a huge variety of homegrown fruits, vegetables, and flowers grown using only sustainable and certified organic production methods on the 500 acres of permanently preserved farmland we till.  The Farm offers Pick Your Own fruits and vegetables, a fully stocked Garden Center and a Market filled with fresh, homegrown fruits and vegetables, jams, jellies, our own honey, fudge, ice cream, home baked pies, donuts and more!  We also have Family Fun activities from pony rides and hay rides, to a bouncy house and many friendly farm animals to pet and feed.  Alstede Farms offers great family value and memories for everyone. We make real agriculture accessible to everyone.  www.alstedefarms.com.