About
CCEJN is committed to building sustainable food systems for immigrant farmworkers aspiring to become farm owners. Since 2022, CCEJN has launched two farms in the Central Valley, offering farmworkers the opportunity to grow food for personal consumption while learning and practicing regenerative agricultural techniques. These farms also integrate composting to reduce waste that would otherwise end up in landfills.
CCEJN staff support the farmers’ transition from farmworkers to independent farmers through monthly collaborative learning meetings, educational workshops led by experts, and shared decision-making processes. The farmers aim to deepen their farming knowledge and transition to small-scale, regenerative farming operations. CCEJN’s long-term vision is to acquire a farm and lease it to underserved farmers, empowering them to achieve greater sustainability and economic self-sufficiency.
Sustainable Food Systems Projects
La Milpa de Fresno (situated in SW Fresno, 39.6% poverty rate):
In December of 2022, CCEJN staff worked alongside farmworker leaders to establish La Milpa de Fresno, a 1.5 acre community-led farm owned by the Fresno Westside Seventh-Day Adventist Church. The farm is divided into 10 parcels, with 2 being used by church members. Eight farmworkers were given the opportunity to cultivate pesticide-free produce for self-consumption and to feed members of their local community on the remaining parcels. They sold their produce for the first time in July of 2024.
Jardin Comunitario de Cantua Creek (situated in a rural setting, 50.6% poverty rate):
In March of 2023, CCEJN staff began discussions with the Principal of the Cantua Creek Elementary School to establish a farm on school grounds for community residents, as well as for students enrolled in the after school program. The 1-acre land was divided into 26 parcels; of these, 22 parcels and 6 raised garden tables are for the farmers and 4 parcels for students ranging from kindergarten to middle school. The farm was established in December of 2024 and cultivation will begin in February of 2025 with 19 resident farmers.