Reflections on The Hill Farm

As the Christmas season arrives, we find ourselves reflecting on the many ways hope has taken root in Allison Hill this year. It’s a season that invites us to slow down, give thanks, and recognize the light that shines even in challenging places.

We are particularly grateful for the growth of The Hill Farm this year. We are celebrating the conclusion of our annual gala which raised 94% of our $150,000 goal benefiting The Hill Farm.

The Hill Farm has become a lifeline in Allison Hill — a place where access to fresh food, learning, and opportunity grows right alongside the crops. Neighbors feel its impact deeply. One resident shared:

“I worked closely with the people buying fruits and vegetables, and they came back every week, grateful for healthy food at affordable prices. Continuing to use the farm will give our community long-term access to fresh produce while supporting local agriculture and sustainability. It brings connection and well-being — it’s essential to a healthy, thriving community."

For one of our recent teen interns, Chance, The Hill Farm has been a place of growth in every sense. Through tending crops, feeding animals, and selling produce at the market, he discovered leadership, responsibility, and pride. His mother watched him mature in ways school alone could never provide. His grandmother reflected proudly, “He’s learning to take pride in his accomplishments and understand the value of heard work.”

Younger children expereince the wonder of the farm too. Field trips give them a chnace to explore, taste, and learrn in ways they'll never forget:

"I liked trying new vegetables"

"I love The Hill Farm"

"I liked feeding the and petting the goats and chickens"

"I liked learning how watermelon grows"

 Through these experiences, The Hill Farm cultivates more than food; it cultivates hope, learning, community, and sustainability — a cornerstone for a healthier, thriving Allison Hill and Harrisburg.