Hunger Task Force Farm Joins Heirloom Collard Greens Trial

Hunger Task Force is committed to expanding access to fresh, healthy food for Milwaukee families. This year, the Hunger Task Force Farm (The Farm) is partnering with the Hunger Relief Federation, Seed Savers Exchange and REAP Food Group to participate in a heirloom collard greens trial. This initiative aligns with The Farm’s mission to offer high-quality produce, contribute to sustainable farming practices and steward resources effectively.

Collard greens, rich in essential nutrients, are the most requested produce item grown at The Farm across Hunger Task Force’s network of food pantries and meal sites. Through this trial, The Farm team is testing 10 heirloom collard varieties for traits such as yield, cold hardiness and seed production. By improving growing methods, The Farm can increase access to fresh food while better meeting the unique dietary needs of the community.

“At Hunger Task Force, we strive to provide high-quality, nutrient-dense food to our community,” said Sarah Bressler, Farm Director. “Participating in this trial allows us to access high-yielding varietals, contribute to agricultural research and improve our ability to serve families with fresh, nutritious options.”

The collard greens trial is taking place within The Farm’s hoop houses – structures extending the growing season and creating ideal research and innovation conditions. Since their establishment at The Farm in 2015, hoop houses have been essential for planting earlier in the spring and extending harvests into the fall. At regular intervals, farmers will collect data on growth, productivity and seed production to inform future farming practices and share findings with other growers.

Hunger Task Force is Milwaukee’s Free & Local food bank and Wisconsin’s anti-hunger leader. The organization’s core values are Dignity, Justice, Equity, Compassion and Stewardship. Hunger Task Force feeds people today by providing healthy and culturally appropriate food to hungry children, families and seniors in the community absolutely free of charge. Hunger Task Force also works to end future hunger by advocating for strong public policies and nutrition programs at the local, state and federal level.