Young Family Farm

In operation since 2010, Young Family Farm KC was more formally established in 2019 and is run by 3 generations of Young family members. At the core of their work are the belief in social justice, community empowerment, and collective action. The 3/4 acre farm is located in the Ivanhoe Neighborhood, which is currently a "food insecure" area — and is one of the only urban farms owned and operated by black farmers in the Kansas City area. The farm uses bio-intensive agricultural methods (no-till, high density, spin farming, no pesticide/chemicals). Young Family Farm is highly diversified and grows a variety of veggies, herbs, flowers, and honey. Currently, all produce is sold through an on-farm stand located on Wayne Avenue to make sure healthy food options are easily accessible to residents. 

As long-time residents, the Young Family is personally familiar with and impacted by the urban core’s "food insecure" status. The ethnicity of residents is roughly 89% African American and 6% Latino -- ethnic groups suffering the highest rate of obesity, type 2 diabetes, and high blood pressure. These diseases are often a direct result of poor eating habits and poor food choices.

"Our mission is to empower residents to control their own destinies and health by encouraging them to grow their own food, shop locally, and choose healthy foods over junk foods."

The Young Family Farm is committed to growing fruits and vegetables using organic practices and providing those healthy food choices to the underserved population of Kansas City’s urban core--which we believe will ultimately lead to better health outcomes for residents. In keeping with its mission, the Young Family Farm regularly provides free field trips for youth, workshops, tours, and produce to community members and families. #feedourselvestofreeourselves #growfoodnotgrass #foodjustice #landsovereignty