Projeto CASA - Comunidade Acadêmica que dá Suporte a Agricultura

🌿The CASA Extension Project at UFRJ strengthens the connection between the university community and agroecological family farmers who participate in its Agroecological Market. It operates through a Community-Supported Agriculture (CSA) model, fostering an alternative economy that values the work of small-scale producers. Established in 2016, the project currently engages four farmers directly, promoting a fairer and more sustainable food system.

At the heart of the CSA model is the commitment to supporting farmers so they can continue their essential role—caring for the land and producing healthy food. More than just a financial transaction, the project cultivates appreciation for the food, the farmers, and the relationships built through direct collaboration. The weekly market serves as both a point of food distribution and a meeting place, while farm visits and field experiences further strengthen the bond between consumers and producers.

Over the years, the initiative has faced challenges, including fluctuations in membership, particularly during the pandemic. While farmers now experience abundant harvests, market access remains a struggle. Meanwhile, consumers seek reliable sources of nutritious, locally grown food. The project addresses both needs, ensuring farmers' livelihoods while promoting community health and food sovereignty. It also explores solidarity-based financial support for vulnerable farmers and artisans, demonstrating how a non-profit, trust-based food system can reshape consumption habits and foster environmental awareness.

Find out more at (in Portuguese)
🔗 https://linktr.ee/projetocasaufrj

The CASA Extension Project envisions a future where agroecological farmers are valued and supported, ensuring their ability to cultivate the land with dignity and purpose. It strives to expand the CSA model, engaging more people in a community-driven food system that prioritizes trust, fairness, and sustainability over profit. By strengthening local networks, promoting food sovereignty, and fostering deeper connections between producers and consumers, the project aims to inspire a shift toward more conscious and regenerative consumption practices. Ultimately, CASA dreams of a society where agroecology is not just an alternative but a widely embraced way of nourishing both people and the planet.