By Blake Jackson
American Farmland Trust (AFT) has partnered with the Community Supported Apparel Cooperative (COSAP Co-op) to support the next generation of farmers through a unique clothing collection. The partnership helps raise funds for AFT’s Farmland for a New Generation New York program, which helps new farmers access land and resources.
New York faces a major shift in farmland ownership as one-third of current farmers are over 65, holding two million acres of land. Without support, much of this land is at risk of being lost to development. However, there is hope through initiatives that connect young farmers with land opportunities and the tools they need to succeed.
The COSAP Co-op, a community-based brand focused on building a better food system, chose AFT as one of the first organizations for its “giving back” program. Sales from this limited-edition, ethically made collection will directly support farmland access programs.
The collection was designed by Leigha Morris, a New York-based farmer and artist, whose work reflects the challenges and hope within farming. She draws from her experience at Odd Crop Farm to show how resilience and care for the land can build a better future. “I think the preservation of small farms, food justice work, and so on is about hope,” said Leigha Morris. “We all go through so many elements, setbacks, frustrations, and more each season to start again in March with quite a bit of hope.”
Items in the collection include a long-sleeve 100% cotton tee, an upcycled cotton bandana, a recycled plastic peel-and-stick patch, and a colorful print on sustainable paper.
Both AFT and COSAP Co-op believe this partnership demonstrates how shared values and creative collaborations can make a real difference in supporting local agriculture and future farmers.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zoran-zeremski
Categories: New York, Business