First Fruits started in 2014 as a ministry of Blythewood Presbyterian Church. The verse that shaped our vision was Proverbs 3:9— “Honor the Lord with the first fruits of your harvest.” We intentionally set aside two acres of our church property to provide a unique service to our neighbors and a venue to display God’s beauty. With the help of volunteers, we are able to give quality produce to families involved with Round Top Food Pantry. We want to prioritize families in Blythewood who are unable to put food on the table. We believe that God has blessed us with this land so that we may share of the abundance.

 

In 2017 we decided to expand our services by offering a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) program for 20 families each season. Families can sign up and receive weekly produce for 8-10 weeks. This also enables us to be financially sustainable so that we can continue to give to Round Top Food Pantry free of charge. Participating families are invited to take part in all aspects of the farm— planting, weeding and harvesting. In addition to the CSA, our veggies can be purchased at the weekly Blythewood Farmers Market.

 

In 2023 the First Fruits market garden took a slight change in direction. We changed from a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) to providing raised beds for rent to Blythewood and the surrounding communities. 
First Fruits now offers 4x8 raised beds for rent on a yearly basis.  These raised beds provide a space for experienced and new gardeners to grow vegetables, herbs and flowers. Each raised bed has water available with the option to set up irrigation and a timer or manually water whenever you want.
We also provide assistance in setting up a raised bed as well as resources, such as articles, classes offered in the area, hands on help and training in growing vegetables free of pesticides. 
 

Our hope at First Fruits is to be a center for community building— where people from various walks of life can come together and enjoy God’s good gifts.