Advancing Equity and Wellness Through Food, Farming, and Community-Driven Solutions
Greater Newark Conservancy is committed to transforming our city’s food systems through grassroots solutions that promote health equity and environmental sustainability. Our Urban Agriculture programs provide direct access to fresh, local produce while empowering residents to grow their own food, make healthier choices, and become advocates for food security in their neighborhoods.
From growing leafy greens in our greenhouse to building community through urban agriculture, our Urban Agriculture Programs bring vital farming resources, nutrition education, and food access to the heart of the Newark community.
Hydroponic Food Production
Our 4,000 sq ft hydroponic greenhouse in Branch Brook Park is at the center of our year-round food production efforts. At full capacity, this innovative space can grow over 15,000 plants at a time, supplying leafy greens, herbs, and vegetables to local residents through our markets and farmstands, Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) boxes, and donations.
Hydroponic systems conserve water, extend the growing season, and allow us to grow more food in less space—supporting our mission to bring fresh produce into neighborhoods where access may be limited.
The greenhouse is a key part of our investment in urban agriculture and sustainable food systems, offering both educational opportunities and critical community resources to Newark residents.
For more than a decade, Plot-It-Fresh has allowed Newark families to plant, maintain, and harvest their own garden beds. We partner with existing community gardens and urban farms around the city to connect gardeners with space to grow food.
Participants receive gardening space, tools, seeds, and guidance—whether they’re experienced growers or new to urban gardening. Plot-It-Fresh fosters self-reliance and community wellness while connecting people to valuable gardening resources and nutritional education. This program is one of our most powerful tools for advancing urban gardening and strengthening the Newark community through land access and shared purpose.
Food Initiatives Programs
We believe everyone deserves access to healthy, affordable food. Our Food Access programs reduce barriers by delivering fresh produce directly into Newark neighborhoods—supporting families and individuals through multiple points of distribution.
We believe everyone deserves access to healthy, affordable food. Our Food Access programs reduce barriers by delivering fresh produce directly into Newark neighborhoods—supporting families and individuals through multiple points of distribution.
Farm Stands
We operate seasonal mobile farm stands and markets in collaboration with local partners, making affordable produce available throughout Newark. These farm stands accept SNAP/EBT and WIC benefits, and in 2024, we introduced Double Bucks, which double the value of SNAP dollars to purchase fruits and vegetables.
CSA Produce Boxes
Through our partnership with the Urban Agriculture Cooperative, we offer biweekly CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) Boxes filled with fresh produce grown in our greenhouse and sourced from other local farmers. With three sizes to choose from, our CSA boxes make it easy for families of all sizes to eat fresh, seasonal produce at an affordable price.
Boxes are available on a rolling basis and can be picked up from our 32 Prince Street location. These boxes not only expand community resources, but also support local farming, reduce food waste, and bring sustainability resources to everyday meal planning.
Together, our Urban Agriculture programs help nourish bodies, empower growers, and cultivate a healthier, more resilient Newark community. Through education, equity, and collaboration, we are planting the seeds for long-lasting change in how our city grows, shares, and values food.
By expanding food access, uplifting resident leadership, and strengthening neighborhood networks, we are building a thriving local food system rooted in sustainability and community care.