PHOENIX — Sunflower Farmers Markets here, the first grocery chain in the U.S. to own and operate a commercial-scale farm, will be launching a weekly community supported agriculture program called Veggie Box Subscriptions starting June 19.
The program will run from June 19-Nov. 20 and initially, there will be 100 memberships available to customers in the Boulder, Colo. area. Each week, these subscribers can pick up a half-bushel box filled with seasonal organic vegetables and herbs grown on the company’s Sunflower Farm in Longmont, Colo. The retailer said it guarantees these veggies and herbs will be picked within 24 hours of the time subscribers pick them up.
A whole share, which is a half bushel per week for 23 weeks costs $700. Members can also subscribe to a half share, or a quarter bushel, and pay $325.
"This new program is a major step in our mission to provide organic produce to all," the retailer's website said. "Also, through Veggie Box membership fees, our growers are able to raise capital at the beginning of the planting season and buy seed without having to worry about losing the farm."
Once a subscriber, boxes can be picked up at its Arapahoe Ave. store in Boulder, Colo., its N. 63rd St. store in Longmont, Colo., and at Café of Life, also in Longmont, Colo.
Sunflower is also planning to offer hands-on classes on organic issues and growing techniques at the farm, as well as appearances from special guest speakers in the near future.
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