Community Food at Hillside

Global numbers range for the greenhouse gas emissions caused by agriculture from 9% to 24%. Wherever the true number lies, the reality is that there is quite a lot of work to be done and endless opportunities to create more sustainable models of food production and consumption. This is why food is integral to Hillside and our mission to develop sustainable housing. 

Our approach to the creation of a neighborhood-scale sustainable food system has evolved over the years of planning. We have moved from having intentions of many high-production spaces onsite to an edible perennial-based system in the landscape - encouraging foraging, food season awareness, and landscape interaction. 

The central piece of the food at Hillside is the community-wide CSA. CSA stands for community-supported agriculture. When you become a member of a CSA, you are purchasing a "share" of a farm where you will pick up a box of super-fresh produce every week throughout the growing season. This model not only allows for a farmer to receive money at the start of the season when expenses are the highest and income is the lowest, but it also shares some of the risk (crop loss, diseases, pests) with the consumer. At Hillside, every resident is a member of the CSA. We are partnering with a local farm to grow the produce which we will pick up every week and have set up at the Community Building for residents. 

Partnering with a local farm not only makes sense sustainably by lowering food miles, ensuring quality growing methods, and improving seasonal eating, but it also supports our larger community food system. Along with the Hillside CSA and edible landscape, residents will also have access to resources and space to have their own outdoor gardens.

We are confident and excited to include food as part of our sustainable foundation at Hillside and can't wait to see what will grow of it.