The Baltimore Free Farm (BFF) is a program of Fusion Partnerships Inc. Our mission is to promote accessible, sustainable food and energy programs in Baltimore City. We broke ground on January 3rd of this year, at our flagship project, the Ash Street Community Garden. We transformed an illegal trash dump into a fully functional community garden, which also serves as a model and classroom to teach others about ecological issues.
We have acquired a warehouse across the street from the garden. We use this space to organize and store tools and materials, work on projects, host community meetings, record music, and teach workshops.
The warehouse is in need of repairs. Roof repair, interior and exterior painting, plumbing, and electrical work are all needed.
Until now, we have done all of our own fund raising, including bake sales and lemonade sales, flea markets, food sales and benefit shows. Now we need help to grow and make a bigger difference in Baltimore!
Current BFF projects include:
The Ash Street Community Garden
This property had been used as a trash dump for 60 years. After cleaning and terracing the abandoned lots, in the Hampden neighborhood of Baltimore City, we constructed the garden. Here, community members learn to grow their own food using organic techniques.
Hampden RE-Cycle
By salvaging parts, building and repairing bikes, and teaching others these skills, we hope to increase the use of carbon free modes of transportation.
Recording, Media, and Screen-Printing
We spread our "can-do" message through forms of media that are inexpensive, independent, inspiring, and thought-provoking.
Strange Folks!
A series of musical performances held in the garden. These small shows have helped to publicize our project, to bring the community together through music, and to help local artists to get well-deserved attention.
Beekeeping, thanks to Baltimore Honey!
Container Composting
Composting is important. It amends soil organically, reduces harmful runoff from chemical fertilizers, and reduces the amounts of organic food waste entering landfills. Container composting is important in the city to deter vermin. We regularly teach workshops to share this vital urban skill.
Coming soon:
A New Greenhouse!
Rainwater Collection!
Drip Irrigation, thanks to a grant from Parks and People Foundation!
And (Hopefully) Warehouse repairs!
Future Projects to include:
Bio-diesel Production, Localized Alternative Energy Production, Aquaponics Systems, Greywater recycling system, and much more!
The Baltimore Free Farm is a completely volunteer organization. If you are interested in volunteering for a project, attending an event or workshop, claiming a garden plot for next season, or just want to stop by for a visit, email us at thefreefarm@gmail.com!
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