Shady Grove Blueberry Patch Recovery

Shady Grove Blueberry Patch is stewarded by Josie Gbadamosi. Sadly, the farm tool shed was robbed of everything that she, and her coworkers, need to sustain it. This historically-rooted farm is critical to our greater community, and the state of Alabama at large. It's upon us to care enough to show up and support that work! Josie continues the dreams of Dr. Booker Whatley of sustainable farming. (See story below!) Her farm is located seven miles from downtown Tuskegee, Alabama, and has been blessed by several volunteer efforts from Tuskegee University.

Please consider direct donations of the following, as many of these items (other than security items) were taken--making it nearly impossible during farming season.  

Material Donations needed (contact one of the team for a delivery address):

Security cameras (this has happened before)
Solar-powered motion detectors
Hand-held weed-eater
Walk-behind weed-eater
Battery-operated pruning saws/shears
Batteries for the above item
Power washer
Wire cutters
Air compressor (for the constant upkeep of farm tires)

(The above list is not complete--inventory of theft is underway.  These are the most critical items.)

All monetary proceeds will go to security first, as the farm needs to assure the safety of its tools.  Parameter fencing, cameras, and monitoring are critical--as is shed repair (the window was broken) and farm equipment purchases.  I'm certain that the farm could employ used items, as long as they are in good condition.  

*Note: This fundraiser will be updated as Josie works through the losses.  She and her husband are busy repairing and working through the logistics of the burglary at this time.  

**Also, note: any donation is critical.  We are shooting high, just in the case that the farm could finally have fencing to keep this from happening again.  However, even five dollars could make a difference in the way of tools and the greater goal.  Thank you!

The story:

"The site was established in the late 70s as a demonstration family farm. Dr. Booker Whatley wanted to demonstrate that a single family could generate $100,000 per year on 25 acres of land by treating farming as a year-round business. Josie hopes to restore the historical model farm site. She would like for the property to again become a model farm and incorporate the use of the latest best management practices. Josie wants to make organically grown fruits and vegetables affordable to the community and host educational and recreational agricultural programs for students and seniors. She also hopes to connect with others who are interested in growing blueberries in order to form a co-op and sell cooperatively. Restoring the property and the ideas that Dr. Whatley had, which were influenced by Dr. George Washington Carver, she believes would show the community and the world just how far ahead these men in Tuskegee were in their suggested agricultural practices." (Excerpt from: Minority Land Owner Magazine, Winter 2012.)