Cul2vate

Cul2vate is a community of champions dedicated to serving and feeding physical and spiritual hunger.

Cul2vate feeds those who suffer from food insecurity by providing fresh produce grown locally on Cul2vate farms. Cul2vate feeds those with spiritual needs by employing and training them as “Cul2vators” to work the soil, grow and distribute food. Many of the Cul2vators hired have been incarcerated or are in recovery. Through farming, they find purpose, hope, and a way to give back.

Together, we create a safe space for individuals to learn, grow, and give back to the community. Our program not only provides healthy food to those facing food insecurity but also equips our Cul2vators with the skills and support they need to secure sustainable employment and rebuild their lives.

Cul2vate believes in the mandate of Matthew 25:35. Jesus very practically teaches about caring for others when He states, “I was hungry, and you fed me.” It is our job to feed the hungry locally – those who suffer from physical hunger, and those who hunger for a fresh start.

Cul2vate is a group of champions who serve physically and spiritually hungry individuals in Davidson and Williamson Counties. Fresh, local, nutritious produce grown on the farm is harvested and then distributed directly to those in need in conjunction with ministry partners such as The Nashville Food Project and OneGenAway. The individuals growing these fresh, nutritious vegetables donated to combat food insecurity are called “Cul2vators”. They are employed on the farm and trained right on site! The Cul2vators are seeking to cultivate change in themselves while cultivating the land. Many Cul2vators have faced incarceration and/or are in recovery from addiction. By fostering trust and acceptance, the Cul2vate farm can become a safe place – not only for the people we employ, but for volunteers, community members, and all who visit.

Since its inception in 2015, over 750,000 pounds of food have been donated to those in need. 80individuals have come to work on the farm as Cul2vators; not all have completed the entire program, but each has left an indelible imprint on the farm and on the hearts of the Cul2vate community. Many Cul2vate graduates come back to volunteer on the farm regularly. Cul2vators have gone on to full-time work in agriculture, to work in hospitality, into the Peace Corps, and even to begin their own ministries. Four staff members are graduates of the Cul2vate program.