Whitaker Farm has years of experience serving the Comox Valley through its market and veggie box (CSA) programs.

“We first offered a CSA as part of a co-op we were involved in, and the reasons we continue it today still hold true. At its heart, a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) is about strengthening the connection between farmers and eaters to build real local food security. Our CSA members commit to supporting a single farm in a meaningful way, and in return, we commit to feeding them really well.

When our customers trust us, it allows us to focus on them. That means we crop plan not just for volume but with our members in mind—because we know how much folks love things like berries, cherry tomatoes, salad greens, and carrots but also like a little surprise once in a while. It also means that during tight cash-flow periods, we can keep going without taking on crushing debt, which is stressful for a small farm.”

“Our CSA is about relationships. When the fit is right, it’s great and we stay together for years—some of our members have been with us since 2017! It’s incredible and such an honour to feed our community year after year. Over the years, as we get to know our members, we also learn their preferences, which makes it even more personal.”

“One of the best parts? Gluts happen! When we have a bumper crop, our CSA members benefit. That’s part of the essential risk/reward of a CSA—you share in the abundance as well as the challenges. Last year, our members received the equivalent of 1.5 free boxes of extra food!

One of my absolute favourite parts? Picking the boxes. We always think about what members might still have leftover from the previous week and what will make a really good box based on what’s ready in the fields. And when it hits just right? That’s pure joy.

My favourite box of the season? Always Thanksgiving! It’s the best of both worlds—summer’s last hurrah meets cozy cooking season, and it’s a dream for an eater.

We love what we do, and we love feeding you.”

Learn more about their CSA program!

Website: whitakerfarm.ca
Facebook: @whitakerfarmer
Instagram: @whitakerfarm