NORTHAMPTON, MA (August 30, 2024) – Big Y Supermarket and the University of Massachusetts Amherst‘s Student Farming Enterprise Program are celebrating another year of collaboration, continuing their mission to support the next generation of farmers. Since the partnership began in 2012, it has expanded beyond the Big Y Supermarket in Amherst, with fresh organic vegetables now available at locations in Northampton, Greenfield, and South Hadley.
“Our relationship with local farmers is what sets us apart,” said Adam Hession, Big Y’s director of produce & floral. “Partnering with local farms strengthens our community ties and ensures our produce is as fresh as possible, harvested close to our stores.”
This collaboration benefits both Big Y Supermarket and the UMass program. Student farmers deliver fresh, organic produce to Big Y stores once a week, allowing the supermarket chain to support local agriculture and emerging farmers while providing fresh, seasonal vegetables to customers.
The partnership features a wide variety of crops, including tomatoes, zucchini, squash, cucumbers, beets, carrots, leafy greens, peppers, and more.
The UMass Student Farming Enterprise, part of the Stockbridge School of Agriculture, offers students hands-on experience in managing a small, diversified organic farm. Students gain skills in planning, planting, and harvesting, as well as wholesale retail and marketing.
“This partnership with Big Y provides our students with real-world experience that you don’t find everywhere,” said Amanda Brown, director of UMass’s Agricultural Learning Center. “It’s an incredible opportunity for students to learn every facet of farming, from the field to the store.”
This successful partnership reflects Big Y’s commitment to local agriculture and UMass Amherst’s dedication to sustainability and education in organic farming.
