Somali Bantu Farming Council of Colorado
Contact Name & Title: Denise LinesAddress: 2810 Leyden Street
City, State & Zipcode: Denver, Colorado 80207
Phone: Denise Lines (720) 985-6352; Denver Urban Gardens, Heather DeLong (720) 404-0615
Email:
Web Address:
Project Description:
Since arriving in Denver, Colorado in 2003, the Somali Bantu have
participated in the development of the East 13th Avenue Community
Garden. Their fierce determination to pursue farming as a means of
income and lifestyle led them to create a formal advisory council. The
Somali Bantu Farming Council of Colorado (SBFCC) encourages Somali
Bantu refugees resettling in Denver, Colorado to use their
centuries-old knowledge and experience in farming to become the next
generation of organic farmers in America. Participants are exploring
agricultural-related employment opportunities while learning about
climate and organic farming techniques, with an eye toward ownership of
farm land in Colorado. SBFCC will be farming at Delaney Farms, an
organic co-op farm operated by Denver Urban Gardens. SBFCC will focus
on agricultural education and employment while providing food security
for their families and staying connected as a community.Business Model: The Somali Bantu Farming Council of Colorado (SBFCC) encourages Somali Bantu refugees now resettling in Denver, Colorado to draw on their deep agricultural heritage and experience to have an opportunity to become for profit farmers in America.
Currently the community farms their own plots at Denver Urban Gardens DeLaney Farms. They will be harvesting a variety of organic produce including tomatoes, squash, pumpkins, peppers, greens and mint. The community will sell their produce at Stapleton Farmers Market, as well as several local restaurants and caterers. Participants receive training in horticulture, agriculture business, nutrition, and more.
The vision of the SBFCC is to sell organically grown produce to local buyers, and one day own or lease farm land to farm collectively in Colorado.
Mission: The Somali Bantu Farming Council of Colorado provides training and education opportunities as well as job skills and connections with the community, while enhancing family food security and self-sustainability.Sponsoring Organization: Somali Bantu Farming Council of Colorado
Immigrant Communities Served: Somali Bantu
Languages Spoken: English; Maay Maay
Agricultural Crops & Products: Vegetables and grasses for basket making
Areas of Expertise: Regional Agricultural and Organic Farm Training; Community Development; Marketing; Partnerships, Cultural Competencies
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