Category: Food Insecurity

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The Shutdown May be Over but the Pain Is Not

gregoryjoel

“When people were hungry, Jesus didn’t say, “Now is that political or social?” He said, “I feed you.” Because the good news to a hungry person is bread.” – Desmond Tutu

In October of 2018 I shut down my business to work full-time as the Farm Manager for Opal’s Farm. I knew from my first meeting with Ms. Opal that the farm is where I was called to be, but the first time I saw the whole five acres tilled I wondered how I’d ever “eat the elephant” in front of me. Thanks to my dear friend and mentor, Charlie Blaylock, I didn’t have to. He told me to take one bite at a time, plant one row at a time, and do what I could do each day. If I did that the “elephant” would turn into a glorious farm.

Charlie was right. Nobody wanted to donate to a dream that first year, so money was scarce. All we had were donated tools, donated seeds, and one volunteer to help start our first acre (We love you, Brendan!). The two of us built beds, planted those donated seeds, and with help from the weather that year we had our first harvest on the first acre of Opal’s Farm. What started as a vision of what could be has become a reality over the last seven years. Ms. Opal reminds me that “we’ve done so much with so little for so long that we can do anything with nothing.”

Once we had something to show the funds started coming in slowly and we added more tools, equipment, and crops each season. More volunteers came to the farm and became valued members of the Opal’s Farm community. We were even able to add some paid farmhands (my back was celebrating!). We’ve been proud members of the Cowtown Farmers Market since 2019, hosted events and pop-up neighborhood markets, and opened our own Opal’s Farm Stand in 2024. We became an authorized Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – SNAP – retailer in 2023 and recently added the Double Up Bucks program this year thanks to Texas Health Community Hope and Double Up Texas.

The past ten months have seen many changes in the political and social climate we live and work in. It came to a head when the federal government came to a screeching halt for forty-three days while the Democrats and Republicans argued about policies and funding issues. On October 27th, SNAP Benefits halted to forty-two million Americans in addition to the many federal workers going without paychecks during the shutdown. Food insecurity and hunger became an even harsher reality for more low-income households, seniors, and children. People face tough choices – food or medicine and bills, – even if the shutdown has ended for now.

I have private opinions regarding the debacle but the bottom line for me is that food is neither political nor social in nature as so eloquently in the above Desmond Tutu quote. Food is a basic human right for everyone. It’s not whether one is Democrat or Republican, wealthy or poor, but for everyone. No one, especially our seniors and children, should have to go hungry.

Opal’s Farm is committed to helping those affected by the government shutdown through our farm stand at the Funkytown Mindful Market and the “Doc” Sessions Community Center. In partnership with @Sustainable Food Center (SFC), we are launching

Double Up Fresh Bucks / Dólares Frescos, a temporary program to support farmer sales

and food access for families at our market. 💚

Double Up Fresh Bucks / Dólares Frescos provides [$30 or market amount] worth of

market dollars for shoppers to buy any food or drink item.

Any market shopper affected by loss of services and/or income due to the government

shutdown can receive Double Up Fresh Bucks / Dólares Frescos. Double Up Fresh

Bucks / Dólares Frescos expire on December 31, 2025.

How to Participate:

1️⃣ Visit us at Funkytown Mindful Market (1201 Wesleyan St.) on the 1st Saturday of the month and at Opal’s Farm Stand (“Doc” Sessions Community Center 201 S. Sylvania) every other Saturday from 1pm to 3pm

2️⃣Ask to receive Double Up Fresh Bucks / Double Up Dólares Fresco

We’ll see you there!

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What a Year It’s Been

gregoryjoel

September is finally here, and meteorological autumn has begun. I’d like to think that truly means the end of summer, but I live in Texas, so I know better. We’ll still see some hot days but hopefully no more triple-digit-temperatures. All-all we’ve had a mild summer compared to the last three or four years. We even had rain in July and August, which is rare indeed. Opal’s Farm, with the new fall seed, loves it.

Today is one of the one-in-seven instances that the Labor Day holiday falls on the first day of September. Those who get the day off will be spending time barbequing with family and friends or simply catching up some sorely needed rest. Thanks to the rain this morning I get to spend some time at the desk and reflect on what Labor Day truly means. Labor Day isn’t always a holiday for farmers, so I thought I’d take advantage of the weather to play catch up on the recent farm news.

Most of you all are aware of the cutbacks that led to staff layoffs at the first of the year. Add to that an April knee injury and I’ve been working a bit slower than usual this year. I also had to scale back the amount of land we were cultivating to our original one acre. The good news is that we were still able to surpass last year’s total in pounds of produce grown. That’s what happens as the soil becomes healthier with each passing season. That’s why farming regeneratively is one of our core values.

Stacey Harwood, our Volunteer Coordinator, has remained on staff although paychecks have been a bit erratic this spring and summer. She’s been with Opal’s for six years now and has become a loved member of Opal’s family (we may be a non-profit but we’re really a family farm!). She’s done an excellent job of working with our volunteers and we’ve had some great groups and individuals come out to work on the farm. If you have volunteered with us, please know there’s no way to adequately tell you how much you mean to us. We’ve been able to get so much more completed with your help. Your impact has reached far beyond just the farm to the tables and people across the communities we serve.

Help is treasured, but the reality is that most days it’s just me at the farm. That’s not always so bad though. I’ve really thought about how we can serve our community better. One way we have done that is to open Opal’s Farm Stand every Saturday from 1 PM to 3 PM at the “Doc” Sessions Community Center Parking lot (201 S. Sylvania – the corner of 4th and Sylvania).

Opal’s Farm Stand offers more affordable prices for our quality organic produce to our neighbors. We are also a SNAP/EBT retailer and began offering Double Up Bucks two weeks ago with the help of Texas Health Resources Community Hope and Double Up Texas. SNAP participants can redeem up to thirty dollars in SNAP benefits to purchase fresh produce. Those thirty dollars then becomes sixty dollars, doubling their purchasing power.

We’re still at Cowtown Farmers Market most Saturday mornings, but our emphasis is switching from so much being sold at retail to lower pricing for our community. To be honest, it’s a bit of a financial risk. It takes time to build a market location. Farmers live on slim profit margins. People fail to realize the work that goes into growing good heathy food. That’s why Cowtown offers great food at a fair price.

Unfortunately, farmers markets are not always accessible to marginalized neighborhoods: either in location or pricing. We’re so grateful to be a part of the WIC Farmers Market Nutrition Program at Cowtown. The market and our regular customers are a blessing to us. They’ve helped sustain Opal’s financially and we wouldn’t be here today if it weren’t for them. However, we will be taking less produce to Cowtown so that more is available to the neighborhoods we serve through Opal’s Farm Stand.

We also want to extend a heartfelt thanks to Jesse Herrera of CoAct and the Funkytown Mindful Market. Their market is held on the first Saturday of every month at Texas Wesleyan University (1201 Wesleyan in Polytechnic Heights). They’ve been purchasing Opal’s Farm produce to sell to the Eastside neighborhoods they serve. The next market will be held on September 6th from 11 AM to 2 PM.

I would be remiss if I didn’t give a shout-out to the Dallas Wings WNBA and the Texas Fence Association. In January, they built a chain link fence around our bio-intensive third of an acre. The Dallas Wings front office spent a volunteer day at the farm and got so much done that I am in awe of them. They’ll be returning in September and the Texas Fence Association will return to fence another third of an acre (you all are amazing!).

Our first cohort of Taste the C.U.R.E., in partnership with Tarleton State University, graduated on June 28th. The students did a great job of learning and using bio-intensive farming methods. Several have kept their farm plots while others have chosen to take the knowledge they learned and apply it to their own backyards and neighborhoods. The next cohort starts in February and more details will be forthcoming.

Finally, I want to remind our readers of the importance of today, Labor Day. It was signed into law June 28th, 1894, by President Grover Cleveland following the Pullman strike and decades of struggle by the US labor movement as industrialization grew throughout the end of the nineteenth century. Labor Day is a day to remember and celebrate the sacrifices of the US labor movement and honor their achievements and the prosperity we enjoy today.

Have a great holiday. Enjoy your family and your neighbors. Stop by and see us at Opal’s Farm. We’d love to have you join the family!

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Volunteer for Opal’s Farm: Making a Difference

gregoryjoel

Volunteering for Opal’s Farm is a noble pursuit, offering the chance to give back to your community, learn new skills, and make meaningful connections. However, to maximize your impact—not just for the organization, but for yourself as well—it’s important to approach volunteering with intention, preparation, and a spirit of collaboration. This comprehensive guide explores the steps and mindset that can help you become an effective, valued volunteer for Opal’s Farm and Unity Unlimited, Inc.

Is Opal’s Right for You?

One of the cornerstones of effective volunteering is choosing the right organization. To do this, reflect on the causes or issues that resonate most deeply with you. Are you passionate about education, healthcare, the arts, social justice, or environmental sustainability? When your personal interests align with Opal’s mission, you are far more likely to remain committed and enthusiastic.

  • Research: Please visit our website http://www.unityunlimited.org/opalsfarm
  • Assess Needs: Consider the type of work Opal’s Farm does and the roles available for volunteers. Some people say that not everyone is cut out for farming. That may be true to some extent -farming is not always easy, especially in North Texas. July and August may not be the best time to volunteer because of the heat: although we have a wonderful group from KPMG that comes on August 6th (their Founder’s Day) and works all day in the summer sun (Please know how much you’re appreciated KPMG!).

If the field isn’t the place for you there’s other opportunities in both administration and marketing.

  • Contact and Inquire: Don’t hesitate to reach out to our Volunteer Coordinator, Stacey Harwood. Stacey can be reached by phone or text at 817.819.7770 and by email at opalsfarm@unityunlimited.org. Stacey can fill you in on the volunteer days, hours, and special events such as our Volunteer Appreciation Cookout every 4th of July!

Setting Realistic Expectations

Volunteering is rewarding, but it can also be challenging. To avoid burnout or disappointment, set clear, realistic expectations for your involvement.

  • Time Commitment: Some of our regular volunteers come every week, especially on harvest days, some have monthly commitments, while others simply come when they have time. We don’t require a commitment as much as we would just like you to come out and find the joy of “dirt therapy” and serving the community.
  • Skills and Contributions: Reflect on what you bring to the table. Are you offering professional expertise (such as accounting, graphic design, or event planning) or general support (like distributing food or mentoring youth)?
  • Learning and Growth: Be open to learning but also communicate if there are skills or experiences you hope to gain through volunteering. We love to help volunteers expand their farming / gardening skills. Our hope is that our volunteers carry the skills they’ve learned at the farm to their own homes and neighborhoods.

Building Relationships and Collaborating

Effective volunteering is about more than just the work you do—it’s about the relationships you build. Cultivate strong, respectful relationships with staff, fellow volunteers, and the people or communities you serve. The farm doesn’t just grow and distribute healthy, fresh produce. We strive for a community of service and fellowship, bringing all our neighbors together in unity.

  • Be Professional and Respectful: Treat everyone with kindness and consideration, regardless of position or background.
  • Communicate Clearly: If issues arise or you are unable to fulfill a commitment, let Stacey know as soon as possible. Stacey will communicate when must shift or cancel volunteer times due to special events and staffing issues as well.
  • Embrace Teamwork: Opal’s loves collaboration. Is there something we can do better or are there positive partnerships we may be missing out on.

Staying Engaged and Motivated

Sustaining motivation in a volunteer role may require effort, especially over the long term. Here are some strategies:

  • Connect with the Mission: Regularly remind yourself why you chose to volunteer. Attend organizational events, read newsletters, and celebrate successes.
  • Seek Feedback: Constructive feedback helps you improve and demonstrates that your contributions are valued.
  • Reflect on Impact: Take time to notice and appreciate the difference your efforts make, whether it’s a smile, a thank-you note, or a tangible change in your community.

Demonstrating Flexibility and Adaptability

Non-profit work can be unpredictable. Program needs may shift, funding may fluctuate, or emergencies may arise. The most effective volunteers are those who can adapt gracefully to change.

  • Be Open-Minded: Embrace new tasks or responsibilities as they come up. Versatility is a valuable asset.
  • Problem-Solve Creatively: When challenges arise, seek solutions proactively rather than focusing solely on obstacles.
  • Support Others: Offer help to fellow volunteers or staff who may be struggling, and ask for assistance when you need it.

Understanding Boundaries and Self-Care

Helping others is rewarding, but it should not come at the expense of your own well-being. Recognize your boundaries and practice self-care.

  • Know Your Limits: Don’t overextend yourself. We don’t want anyone to have issues with the weather – especially the Texas summers. Stay hydrated and take breaks when you need to. We want everyone to have a great day at the farm. Let us know if problems arise or another task is more oriented to your skills and abilities.

Measuring and Celebrating Your Impact

Regularly assessing your contributions can be highly motivating and ensures that your efforts are aligned with the organization’s goals.

  • Track Outcomes: Ask how your work fits into these larger outcomes.
  • Share Stories: Celebrate milestones—both big and small. Sharing stories of impact can inspire others and reaffirm your commitment.
  • Solicit Recognition: Don’t be shy about sharing your accomplishments with your supervisor or team, especially if you believe it may help the farm or enhance your future volunteer roles.

Continuing Your Volunteer Journey

As you grow in your role, you may discover new interests or skills. Consider taking on additional responsibilities, mentoring new volunteers, or even serving on a board or committee. Ongoing learning and engagement deepen your impact and foster a richer, more fulfilling experience.

Remember, the most effective volunteers aren’t just those who give the most time—they are the ones who give with heart, purpose, and adaptability. By approaching your volunteer work thoughtfully and proactively, you help create stronger, more resilient organizations and, ultimately, a more compassionate world.

Conclusion

Volunteering at Opal’s Farm is a powerful way to contribute to the greater good and enrich your own life. Opal’s volunteers often tell us how much it affects their physical, mental, and spiritual heath in amazingly positive ways. Whether you are volunteering for the first time or are a seasoned community member, your efforts truly matter. The journey of service is a continuous learning process, filled with opportunities for growth, connection, and real change.

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Bumps in the Road

gregoryjoel

It’s been an interesting Spring at Opal’s Farm. I’ve been busier than a one-armed paper hanger as my uncle used to say.

For one thing, I received a letter from the Social Security Administration this week. It said I’ve reached the age where I am now considered retired. I have to laugh when I realize Ms. Opal “retired” the year after I graduated high school. If that’s what retirement looks like, then I’m grateful for it. It means I can focus on loving and serving others full-time just like her. At ninety-eight, she reminds me that she just keeps running forward so the good Lord can’t catch her to take her home. Besides, there’s so much more to do. Especially now…

The other thing that happened is a little less humorous. My left knee blew out on me last Wednesday as I was putting tools away for the day. That wouldn’t have been unusual as it tends to happen now that I’m old enough to suffer the consequences of an overactive youth. This time was different. It didn’t stop hurting the next day and the pain was in a different part of my knee and increasing rather than decreasing. I decided Friday afternoon I had better go to the ER and have it checked out.

Fortunately, nothing is broken, but since X-rays don’t show cartilage or ligament damage, I’ll be seeing the orthopedic surgeon this week. Moreover, the ER doc said I had a lot of arthritis, and the next step was a knee replacement. I feared that might be the case. I guess I’ll find out this week. It’s a pretty big bump in the road.

He also told me to take steroids and pain medicine, wear the immobilizer, use the crutches, and stay off my knee for a few days. I can take medication. I can use the immobilizer most of the time. I can even use the crutches sometimes. However, for a farmer four days of bed rest isn’t possible this time of year. My doctor and I have an agreement – I don’t tell him how to practice medicine and he doesn’t tell me how to farm.

I went market and “Taste the C.U.R.E” class yesterday. If people ask me what happened I simply tell the truth – I got older!

I guess there’s more news to come and a lot of decisions to be made. I’ll just hobble along and work on the farm until then. I’m going to be much slower so I’m extra grateful for the volunteers we have right now. Spring is the busiest time of year for farmers and Opal’s is no exception. The farm still needs daily care. I’ll be there as long as the good Lord lets me, but we need extra volunteer help right now. Please think of us if you have a little spare time and want to get you’re hands dirty. After all, dirt don’t hurt.

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Buy Local – Now More Than Ever

gregoryjoel

I apologize for not posting regularly over the last couple of months. Opal’s Farm is going through several changes right now – most notably in staff. Recent cuts to USDA funding and January resignations have left the farm work to myself, my Volunteer Coordinator, Stacey Harwood, and a small number of volunteers. We are still on track for all our Spring planting and looking forward to a great harvest.

The bipolar Texas weather hasn’t helped even though it has kept things interesting. The freezing weather one week and in the eighties the next caused some of the winter crops to bolt. That was followed by seventy-two hours of sub-freezing weather and the plants took it much harder than the first round of freezes. The good news is that it looks like we’ve had our last hard freeze. Tomatoes are coming on the 17th and the rest of Spring planting is underway. We’re looking forward to bringing the Spring harvest to market!

I would also like to take a moment to talk about the many non-profit organizations working in agriculture and food systems. They have endured financial hardships due to the recent changes at the USDA. Some programs that aid farmers and farm organizations have been shut down indefinitely as funding has been frozen or eliminated entirely. Economic uncertainty faces us all.

The average age of a farmer in Texas is sixty-two. Part of our mission is to incubate new farms and train new farmers. American Farmland Trust has a slogan that says it all: “No farms. No food”. Please consider the importance of our local farmers, the healthy fresh produce they bring to our community, and the education they bring to the next generation of farmers, both urban and rural.

I’ve spent the last two months with our “Taste the C.U.R.E.” students and seen the interest and willingness to be part of the grower’s community. Not only do they want healthy food for themselves, but they want to feed their neighbors. Urban agriculture is a growing alternative to high food prices and the ultra-processed food found at the big grocery stores. We hope the movement continues to grow and that you can become a part of it.

You can support your local farmers and food system through financial donations, calling your elected representatives, volunteering at a local farm, or simply shopping local at your local farmers market or farm stand. Not only is local produce healthier, it ensures that food access is available to your community. Food access is not a “DEI” issue. It should be available to all of us. Healthy food is a basic human right. Your local farmers are working long hours to feed us all. Buy local and support your local farm!