Providing a focal point for community health and wellness and a training ground for life and work skills
A place of community concern
Poughkeepsie has suffered from decades of disinvestment and discriminatory housing practices such as redlining — denying services (typically financial) to residents of certain areas based on who they are or where they come from. The neighborhood surrounding Pershing Park was labeled as a “red” and “undesirable” area by the Home Owners’ Loan Corporation. This prevented families from securing loans and building wealth, and escalated poor housing conditions, inadequate infrastructure, and economic instability. Ask Northside residents about the wooded property that sat behind Pershing Park for many years, and many will tell you it was under-resourced and that, being secluded and poorly lit, invited illicit activity.
A neighborhood farm and rejuvenated park
Joint efforts by community members and local stakeholders has transformed this quarter-acre site into the Pershing Community Farm, created in response to needs voiced by residents to support and build healthy lifestyles for children and families, and provide quality education programs for people of all ages. In spring 2021, local residents began growing their own produce in the community garden. The following year, operations began at an educational farm that supplies fresh fruits and vegetables to neighborhood families. At the farm, Poughkeepsie youth can learn life and work skills through hands-on experiences in farming and gardening, health and nutrition, and entrepreneurship and leadership. The City of Poughkeepsie made improvements to adjacent Pershing Avenue Park, including rebuilding and replacing the existing basketball court and playground, adding new native plantings, new benches, new picnic tables, new play equipment, new solar lighting, a new walking path, and new meadow for passive recreation.
A focal point for health and wellness
Pershing Community Farm will strive to be a focal point for community health and family wellness, a training ground for entrepreneurship, and a welcoming place for joyful celebrations. Just a five-minute walk from 3,800 households, it can also play a critical role in reducing food insecurity, hunger, and childhood obesity. The improved Pershing Avenue Park will offer opportunities for active recreation and more inviting spaces for relaxation and for family and neighborhood gatherings. Tell us what you want to see at Pershing Community Farm! (Para llenar la encuesta en español haz clic aquí.)
FAQs (frequently asked questions)
Who owns the Pershing Community Farm?
The City of Poughkeepsie owns the land. In March 2021, the Common Council approved a five-year lease agreement with Scenic Hudson to operate the farm.
Who else is partnering in the project?
Along with Scenic Hudson and the city, partners include many Northside residents, New City Parks, the Poughkeepsie Farm Project, the YouthBuild AmeriCorps Program of Nubian Directions II, Ecological Citizens Partnership, and Glynwood.
What amenities does it include?
In addition to raised beds, running water, and a perimeter fence, the farm features universally accessible paths, a greenhouse, toolshed, as well as picnic tables and benches.
How will food from the educational farm be distributed?
There is a free farm stand at Pershing on Tuesdays from 4 – 6 p.m. June through November.
Who will run the farm?
Urban Farmer Carley Franklin-Hughes is managing the farm operations along with Assistant Grower, Joshua Walker.
Will there be additional improvements at the park?
Yes. Poughkeepsie’s Common Council has approved a bond to fund the park’s refurbishment. Scenic Hudson and New City Parks also have pledged support.
What else is going on in the neighborhood?
The Pershing Community Farm is part of a larger initiative to create a neighborhood-focused “park corridor” along Pershing Avenue. It is being spearheaded by the PARKnership.