Liberation Farms Looks Forward to 2025 Season

Despite federal funding cuts, which threaten to impact certain programs at the Somali Bantu Community Association (SBCA) and Liberation Farms this summer, the mood of the farmers is spirited, and plans are well underway for the upcoming growing season.

Isha Kasai, who has led the Kasheekee Youth program for three years, said she is looking forward to the 2025 summer season at Liberation Farms. Kasheekee serves children ages 5-12.

Goats will play a bigger role in the curriculum this coming summer, Kasai said, providing an estimated 30 children with hands-on experiences with the animals. There will be more gardening opportunities as well, with additional garden beds and new plantings of fruit trees, strawberries, and raspberries.

Kasai said she is grateful for the beauty of the farm, and for the many opportunities the land provides for children and elders to come together. While at the farm, children learn from their elders about their heritage and also practice Somali language skills, since many elders do not speak the fluent English of the children. Children also learn about growing vegetables for home and market use.