On January 10, 2026, the Joy Grows board, staff, and community partners gathered at Craig and Kate’s house on President Street in Annapolis for a lively and inspiring board meeting. The conversation focused on how Joy Grows can continue expanding access to fresh food, education, and opportunity in Eastport and beyond.
A major focus of the meeting was the half-acre Eastport Community Farm site. The vision is clear: half of the space dedicated to growing food, and half serving as outdoor classroom and community space. This balance allows the farm to be both productive and educational, a place where residents can access fresh vegetables and learn how food is grown.
The group discussed several ways to make sure community members can easily receive produce, including harvesting by appointment and home delivery options.
Effective outreach was another key theme. Ideas included flyers and surveys (with produce samples) delivered directly to residents, garden signage, community outreach days, and social media campaigns.
To help spark meaningful conversations, the group agreed that a clear, easy-to-understand graphic explaining the project will be essential. This visual tool will help residents quickly see what the farm is, how it works, and how they can be involved.
The meeting also touched on the history of the land. The nearby ball field, which is occasionally used for kickball, was once a farm – a reminder that agriculture has long been part of this community. There was strong interest in “putting the history on site” by working with the Maryland Hall of Archives to better understand and share the story of the land.
Guest insights added even more energy to the discussion. Highlights included:
Exploring a SARE equipment grant to support the farm, with an emphasis on safe storage.
Planting trees during the cool season, potentially in partnership with Chesapeake Bay Trust, especially on residential properties in low-income neighborhoods.
Expanding experiential learning opportunities such as farm field trips, greenhouse visits, and living classrooms.
Visiting Black-owned farms with youth so young people can see themselves reflected as leaders and land stewards.
Creating “grow packages” that participants can take home to start growing their own food.
The meeting wrapped up with several clear action steps, including connecting with local faith and housing leaders, establishing dedicated stewards for each garden site, and setting up a meeting with the Maryland Hall of Archives.
As always, Joy Grows’ work is rooted in collaboration, creativity, and care for community.
Thank you for being part of the Joy Grows journey.
A recording of the meeting can be accessed here.
Agenda Minutes
December 2025
Agenda and Minutes
