About the Commmunity We Serve

Baden, Missouri is a historic neighborhood in North St. Louis known for its deep-rooted community pride, resilient spirit, and diverse population. Despite facing economic and social challenges over the years, the people of Baden remain committed to improving their neighborhood and supporting one another.

The Baden Farm was created as a response to the needs and aspirations of this vibrant community. Our mission is to serve the residents of Baden by providing access to fresh, locally grown food and empowering individuals through education, engagement, and sustainable practices.

Here’s how we serve Baden through the Baden Farm:

1. Fresh, Affordable Produce:
We grow and distribute healthy fruits and vegetables right in the heart of the neighborhood. This helps combat food insecurity and offers an affordable alternative to fast food and processed items that are too often the only nearby options.

2. Community Engagement:
The farm is a space where residents of all ages come together—whether to volunteer, attend events, or participate in workshops. It’s not just about food; it’s about building relationships, sharing knowledge, and strengthening community bonds.

3. Youth and Adult Education:
We offer educational programs that teach gardening skills, nutrition, environmental stewardship, and food preparation. These programs equip residents with tools to lead healthier lifestyles and inspire future generations to value sustainability and self-sufficiency.

4. Beautifying and Revitalizing Baden:
The farm transforms unused or underutilized land into a productive, green space that enhances the beauty and safety of the neighborhood. It’s a visible sign of growth, care, and investment in Baden’s future.

5. Local Leadership and Collaboration:
We work closely with local organizations, schools, and residents to ensure that the farm meets real community needs. It is led by and for the people of Baden, giving them a voice and a stake in creating a healthier, more hopeful environment.

Through the Baden Farm, we’re not just growing food—we’re growing opportunity, health, and a renewed sense of community in Baden, Missouri. Together, we’re planting the seeds for a stronger tomorrow.

Our Mission

Our mission is to empower children by providing access to quality education and essential nutrition, fostering their growth development, and well-being. We are committed to creating nuturing environments where every child can thrive academically and physically, laying the foundation for a brighter, healthier future

Health Opportunities

Community farms and gardens offer a wide range of health benefits that go far beyond access to fresh fruits and vegetables. These spaces create powerful opportunities to improve physical, mental, and social well-being for individuals and communities alike.

1. Access to Nutritious Food:
Community farms increase access to fresh, locally grown produce, especially in areas where healthy food options may be limited. Eating more fruits and vegetables supports heart health, strengthens the immune system, and helps prevent chronic diseases like diabetes and obesity.

2. Physical Activity:
Gardening is a low-impact form of exercise that engages the whole body. Planting, weeding, watering, and harvesting help improve strength, flexibility, and endurance while encouraging people to spend more time outdoors.

3. Mental Health Benefits:
Working with the earth has been shown to reduce stress, anxiety, and symptoms of depression. The calming nature of gardening, combined with time in the fresh air and sunlight, can boost mood and improve overall mental wellness.

4. Health Education and Empowerment:
Community farms often offer workshops and hands-on learning experiences focused on nutrition, cooking, and sustainable growing practices. This educational component empowers individuals to make healthier food choices and gain the skills needed to grow their own food at home.

5. Social Connection and Community Building:
Farming and gardening together create meaningful opportunities for people to connect, collaborate, and support one another. These social interactions reduce isolation, promote inclusion, and contribute to a stronger sense of community belonging—all of which are vital for emotional and mental health.

In summary, community farms and gardens nourish more than just the body—they cultivate health, knowledge, and unity, making them essential assets for thriving communities.

Baden Farmer’s Market

The Baden Farmers Market is more than a place to shop—it's a hub for health, community, and connection in the heart of North St. Louis. Located in the historic Baden neighborhood, our market was established to address food insecurity and bring fresh, affordable produce directly to the people who need it most.

One of the key ways we ensure everyone has access to nutritious food is by proudly accepting WIC and EBT (SNAP) benefits. By doing so, we make it possible for families, seniors, and individuals with limited income to purchase high-quality, locally grown fruits, vegetables, and other healthy food options without financial barriers.

How We Serve the Community Through the Baden Farmers Market:

1. Making Healthy Food Affordable:
By accepting EBT and WIC, we empower low-income households to stretch their food dollars and bring home the nutritious ingredients needed for healthier meals. Many of our vendors also participate in programs that offer matching dollars or bonus produce, making these benefits go even further.

2. Supporting Families and Children:
WIC participants can use their benefits to buy fresh produce for young children and pregnant or nursing mothers. This helps ensure the next generation starts life with the nutrition they need to grow and thrive.

3. Boosting Local Farmers and Economy:
When people use WIC and EBT at our market, they’re not just feeding their families—they’re also supporting local growers and food producers, helping to build a stronger, more resilient local economy.

4. Creating a Welcoming, Inclusive Space:
The Baden Farmers Market is open to everyone, regardless of income level. We aim to eliminate the stigma often associated with using food benefits by fostering a friendly, inclusive environment where all shoppers feel respected and valued.

5. Promoting Nutrition Education:
Alongside fresh food, we provide resources on healthy eating, recipes, and cooking demonstrations to help families make the most of what they buy—ensuring knowledge goes hand-in-hand with nourishment.

In a neighborhood where access to fresh food has often been limited, the Baden Farmers Market is a lifeline—a place where healthy food is a right, not a luxury. By accepting WIC and EBT, we are feeding our community with dignity, equity, and purpose.