CW Vol 2 Ed. 20 - Food Is Medicine: Fresh from the Farm for Body and Soul

Working in construction across Maine comes with long hours, tough weather, and physically demanding work. That’s why how we fuel our bodies matters. One of the best ways to support your strength, stamina, and overall health is by eating fresh, seasonal foods — the kind you’ll find at your local farmers’ market or through a Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) share.

What is a CSA?

CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture — a model where you "subscribe" to a local farm by purchasing a share of the harvest. In return, you receive a box of seasonal produce (and sometimes eggs, meat, or bread) each week or biweekly. It's a win-win: you get farm-fresh food, and your local farmers get the support they need to thrive.

Want to explore CSA options? Visit MOFGA's CSA Directory to find farms near you.

Whether you're starting your day before sunrise or heading home after a long shift, choosing nutrient-rich food helps restore energy, reduce inflammation, and support immune health. It’s simple, powerful medicine — grown right here in Maine.

Farmers’ Markets: More Than Just Groceries

Farmers’ markets offer more than fresh food — they’re a place to connect with your community, try new recipes, and support local businesses. You’ll find everything from leafy greens and berries to artisan cheeses, local meats, baked goods, and herbal products.

Maine has dozens of markets running from spring through fall. Browse by day or region using the Maine Federation of Farmers' Markets directory. If you work across town lines or travel for work, there's likely a market along your route home.

In New Hampshire? Try VisitNH’s market guide.

The Joy of Cooking Together

Picking up a fresh box of produce can spark something special — a meal made together. Whether it's your partner, kids, grown-up children, cousins, or neighbors, preparing food with others fosters connection and care.

Grill fresh corn after a long day. Toss a salad from your CSA greens. Roast root vegetables for Sunday dinner. These moments can be grounding and joyful — a small ritual that says, "I care about you, and I care about what we eat."

Why Local Matters

Supporting local farms:

  • Keeps money in Maine communities.

  • Preserves working farmland and open space.

  • Reduces environmental impact.

  • Ensures you get food at peak nutrition and flavor.

Eating this way also builds resilience — in your health, your family routines, and in the communities you live and work in.

Food is Medicine — for your body, your mind, and your community.

Explore a market, join a CSA, and discover the difference fresh, local food can make.

🛒 No time for a farmers’ market? Hannaford supermarkets often carry local produce too — just look for the “Local” tags in store!

🍓 Farmers’ Market Tip: For those of you near Freeport on a Thursday afternoon, stop by the Yarmouth Farmers’ Market (Memorial Green, 3–6 p.m.). Along with beautiful produce, you’ll find local meats, baked goods, herbal teas, and live music. It's a great way to unwind after work or pick up ingredients for dinner that night.

View this Newsletter and links to resources here!

Or use these links to find a farmer’s market near you:

MOGFA’s CSA Directory

Maine Farmers’ Markets

NH Farmers’ Markets

5/14/2025

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