How Share the Bounty got started

In 1997, having recently moved here from Los Angeles, my wife Barbara [Zheutlin] and I joined a CSA at Gould Farm, splitting one share with some friends. By the end of the growing season, I had come to the realization that, as much as I loved the concept of a CSA, it was impractical for just the two of us because even a half share was too much.

I then had this idea: what if one could give to a nonprofit that bought shares in a CSA and gave those shares to a local food pantry? I was struck by the notion that every dollar donated — in serving three goals — would effectively triple in value: supporting a local farmer, preserving our rural landscapes, and providing fresh, healthy food to community members in need.

Luckily, I happened to share my thought with Jennifer Dowley, president of the Berkshire Taconic Community Foundation, who loved the idea. She called me from work the next day to say she had created a fund named Share the Bounty.

Editor’s Note: Please see related article by Honey Sharp: Food Justice: So others may eat.