The Atlantic County Economic Alliance (ACEA) is strengthening Atlantic County’s food systems and driving economic growth through its partnership with Communities Revolutionizing Open Public Spaces (C.R.O.P.S.). By securing a $500,000 grant from the New Jersey Economic Development Authority (NJEDA), ACEA funded the C.R.O.P.S. Farm Share Program, expanding access to fresh, locally sourced produce while creating new opportunities for regional farmers and small businesses.
A key component of this initiative is developing a new app designed to connect regional farmers with consumers in Atlantic City. This app will create a marketplace that directly addresses the area’s food desert challenges—ensuring farmers get paid while consumers gain access to nutritious, fresh fruits and vegetables.
“This initiative is a testament to how strategic investment in sustainable agriculture can drive economic growth,” said Lauren Moore, President of ACEA. “By supporting programs like the C.R.O.P.S. Farm Share, we are improving food accessibility while creating new opportunities for farmers and small businesses, strengthening the economic fabric of Atlantic County so everyone wins!”
Alicia Newcomb, Executive Director of C.R.O.P.S., added, “Atlantic City will be the first New Jersey organization to use this new technology, paving the way for other New Jersey communities to replicate the model in the future. The new version of the app is set to launch at the end of April.”
Initially launched as a pilot in February, the Farm Share Program quickly expanded, with further growth planned for April and beyond. The program is based on the successful Fresh Stop Markets model, pioneered by New Roots, Inc. in Louisville, Kentucky, for over 16 years. ACEA and C.R.O.P.S. have partnered with New Roots to bring this proven model to New Jersey, making Atlantic City the first place to explore and implement this approach in the state.
To support the program’s growth, the app is being developed in collaboration with New Roots and Slingshot to improve accessibility and efficiency.
“The funding helps New Roots improve the app by transitioning it to a new operating system and making SNAP Benefits more efficient,” said Karyn Moskowitz, Executive Director of New Roots.
“This initiative is about much more than providing food; it’s about building a foundation for a sustainable future,” said Newcomb. “By connecting local farmers with the community, we are creating a resilient food system that empowers individuals and strengthens our local economy.”
Participants offer strong support for the initiative. Gail K. emphasized the importance of eating fresh, clean food and supporting local farmers, while Wendy M. highlighted its broader impact on community well-being. Briana S. noted the program’s economic significance, stating, “I want to support the local economy because we don’t know what the future has in store.”
Farmers and stakeholders convened to discuss the program’s role in addressing food accessibility. Ryan Ploch, a participating farmer, stressed the need for solutions, stating, “Atlantic City is a food desert, and it does not have to be. We are ready to help.”
Chef Ecstasy B. reinforced the program’s health benefits, adding, “Health is wealth, and I’m excited to build our bodies back stronger.”
Farmer Hunter L. from Reed’s shared optimism about the initiative’s long-term impact, saying, “It is frustrating that there aren’t more grocery options, but maybe we’re going to make something even better.”
