RFA News and Updates
ROCKLAND FARM ALLIANCE SEEKS TO RAISE $25,000 THROUGH GRANT FROM RSF SOCIAL FINANCE
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
New City, NY (July 18, 2012)—Rockland Farm Alliance (RFA), a non-profit organization focusing on revitalizing local food systems in Rockland County, NY, has announced a $25,000 matching challenge made possible by a recent grant awarded by RSF Social Finance (RSF). This 2012 appeal will provide an additional $25,000 to help RFA continue to build community programs and develop new farm projects.
“We’re proud to support RFA’s ecological and community stewardship programs,” noted Don Shaffer, President and CEO of RSF Social Finance. “Their efforts to preserve Rockland’s farming heritage and move forward to developing a significant food shed are most laudable,” he continued.
Cropsey Community Farm, RFA’s first farm project and Rockland’s largest organic Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) farm, is in its second growing season and follows the practices of biodynamic farming. “I believe RSF Social Finance sees the importance of RFA’s work facilitating local agriculture in the suburbs, particularly through the methods of biodynamics,” said RFA president, John McDowell. “It’s an honor to be recognized by such a reputable financial organization.”
“In the last year, hundreds of area students, scouts, and adults have visited Cropsey Community Farm to learn about where their food comes from and to benefit from this community resource,” explained Executive Director Naomi Camilleri. “We have a solid internship and volunteer program in place, and are developing partnerships with local organizations to incorporate the farm into health and wellness programs, particularly with our residents with disabilities. We’re grateful for the generosity and support of this grant from RSF Social Finance, and we hope to reach our matching funds goal by this fall,” she continued.
The fundraising campaign is open to corporations, businesses, organizations and individuals who recognize and support the movement to develop a sustainable local food system. Donations of any amount are welcome, and can be mailed to Rockland Farm Alliance, 220 S. Little Tor Rd., New City, NY 10956, or made safely and securely online at the following link: http://www.rocklandfarm.org/donate_to_rfa.html
Rockland Farm Alliance is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, and all donations will be tax deductible to the fullest extent allowed by law.
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About Rockland Farm Alliance: Rockland Farm Alliance (RFA) was formed in early 2007, with a mission to preserve, create and enhance sustainable food production in Rockland County, NY, while creating model small-scale farms that serve as outdoor classrooms for agricultural education. This grassroots effort of farmers, community groups and activists, has grown into a powerful community force with over 1,000 followers. For more information visit www.rocklandfarm.org.
About RSF Social Finance: The foundation is dedicated to exploring new economic models that support sustainable food and agriculture, while raising public awareness of the value of organic and Biodynamic farming. For more information visit www.rsfsocialfinance.org.
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