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Since 1879, Methodist Family Services of Philadelphia (MFSP) and its sister agency have provided a variety of programs and services to help children and families in need; currently offering housing, education, counseling and care for abused and neglected children, while assisting families in staying united or being re-united. 

Heritage Farm is a revival of a MFSP tradition which used the campus grounds to produce food in support of residential programming. Originally farming was done by staff and children who lived in the orphanage. Today Heritage Farm takes a multifaceted approach to building community and a more complete food system. As a food growing operation it supports the campus need for food supply, healthy habits and lifestyles, an educational space for adults and children, and a place to empower residents to gain and retain work skills; contributing to the movement towards urban farming. 

The 50% decrease in commercial orchards in the last 25 years, makes local fruit less available.  Introducing a local fruit orchard creates a restful, inspiring and collaborative outreach to the children and families we serve on our 21 acre campus and to schools, local organizations and the community.  Incorporating the award of a fruit tree orchard at Heritage Farm would transform a large expanse of green lawn into a diverse food-bearing space for children and adults who have experienced homelessness and are now in safe housing, children being kept safe and engaged through educational & early childhood programming that have not been adequately exposed to healthy eating habits.]

PLEASE VOTE FOR OUR FRUIT TREE ORCHARD!

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