The Path of Citrus Co. Farm & Co-op

Located in rural Citrus County, Florida, The Path has been in operation since 2001, sheltering over 2,500 homeless or displaced men, women, and children. In 2010, public demand led to the formation of The Path Farm Co-op, allowing the community to obtain locally-grown, pesticide-free vegetables. In 2019, The Path completed major renovations on a motel complex to better accommodate more women with children, single men with their children, and intact families.

The farm project, 'Harvest Hope,' spans 15 acres and employs environment-friendly resources such as worm castings and river muck to cultivate nutrient-rich vegetables. The vegetables are grown without pesticides or preservatives and are often harvested within 24 hours of member pick-up. The farming methods are adaptable to small farms or community gardens worldwide.

The Path's Farm Co-op supports a supervised work program for the homeless at The Path's shelter, providing work and skills training, healthy food, and physical exercise. Memberships fund the planting, growing, and harvesting of vegetables, with members receiving fresh-picked produce weekly throughout the growing seasons. The Path also offers farm tours to the public, and the community benefits from nearly year-round availability of fresh food and volunteer opportunities in farming activities.