Plainsong Farm Receives Rockford Education Foundation Grant

Thanks to a recent grant from the Rockford Education Foundation, The Living Laboratory Project at Plainsong Farm and Ministry will be going in the ground this Spring! With this support, the Farm will be able to purchase tools, curriculum, and growing supplies. 

The project is an educational garden that will eventually serve as an outdoor classroom for students throughout the Rockford and West Michigan area. The garden will provide hands-on, immersive experiences that connect students to food, nature, and each other. It will create space for scientific exploration and discovery to expand learning beyond the classroom. Plainsong Farm plans to pilot curriculum in the garden to Rockford area students during the Spring and Fall of 2022 with the goal to open up programming areawide for students in Spring of 2023. 

Plainsong Farm uses regenerative farming practices to grow seasonal, nutrient-dense food that enriches and enlivens the soil. The produce grown in the project plot will help supply partnering community organizations (including North Kent Connect, GRCC Student Food Pantry, and the Grand Rapids Community Food Club) with fresh vegetables, assisting populations facing obstacles of access and affordability to healthy food. This work with community partners will allow students to engage in service learning opportunities, expanding their impact as community citizens. 

The Living Laboratory Project will provide opportunities for students, parents, and teachers to improve biodiversity and ecosystem health through the work of regenerative farming. It promotes connection to and appreciation for the natural world, helping students to understand how individual behavior impacts the greater environment. Plainsong Farm looks forward to welcoming students onto the land and working together to strengthen our community.