WHO WE ARE & WHAT WE DO
Sanctuary Farm Phila, a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization and urban farm, provides free, fresh, organically grown produce and implements programs that enhance the health and well-being of our community members.
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Dedicated to tackling the health disparities arising from systemic racial inequality and economic injustices, Sanctuary Farm Phila transforms neglected and abandoned spaces within our community into welcoming, nourishing, and thriving environments that prioritize safety and well-being.
ABOUT US
Since 2017, Sanctuary Farm Phila has grown over 35,000 pounds of fresh produce, freely shared with over 1,500 local families.
OUR MISSION
We convert abandoned and neglected areas in our community into spaces that promote safety, hospitality, nutrition, and growth.
Sanctuary Farm Phila seeks to address the health inequities resulting from systemic racial oppression and economic injustice by converting abandoned and neglected areas in our community into spaces that promote safety, hospitality, nutrition, and growth.
OUR VISION
We are an urban farm serving as a catalyst for positive change.
Our vision at Sanctuary Farm Phila is to cultivate a resilient and interconnected north Philadelphia community. We envision a vibrant space where everyone has access to nutritious food, where families come together to learn and grow, and where urban farming serves as a catalyst for positive change.
OUR STORY
Working together to create a space of beauty, safety, and healing for those who need it most.
Sanctuary Farm Phila's journey began in early 2016, when its visionary founder, Andrea Vettori, conceived the idea. As the clinical director for Mary Howard Health Center for the Homeless, Andrea possessed extensive experience in working with individuals facing homelessness and housing instability. Her passion for gardening and beekeeping further deepened her understanding of the healing potential that comes from connecting with the earth. With the support of neighbors, dedicated volunteers, and valuable non-profit partnerships, Sanctuary Farm took its first steps, breaking ground on an empty North Philadelphia lot in May 2017.
OUR COMMITMENT
Sanctuary Farm Phila is deeply committed to the well-being of our community.
We believe that everyone deserves access to fresh, healthy food, regardless of their circumstances. Our farm operates as a sanctuary for all, a place where residents can cultivate both crops and connections. Our commitment is to:
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1. Cultivate Fresh, Organic Produce: We take pride in producing a wide variety of fruits and vegetables using sustainable, organic farming practices. Our dedication to quality ensures that our community receives the best nature has to offer.
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2. Strengthen the Community: We believe that strong communities are built on strong relationships. Through various programs and activities, we foster connections among our residents and provide a space where they can learn, share, and grow together.
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3. Promote Health and Wellness: Access to fresh, organic produce is a cornerstone of a healthy lifestyle. We offer educational programs and workshops on nutrition, gardening, and healthy cooking to empower our community to make better choices for their well-being.