Across the country, a shift is happening. More people are planting gardens, raising chickens, and finding ways to grow their own food. This movement goes beyond gardening—it’s about health, sustainability, and rebuilding connections with our food and neighbors.
A Return to Homegrown Values
In the 1800s, growing food was an essential part of life. Nearly every family tended gardens, raised livestock, and preserved their harvests to get through the seasons. Over time, industrialization and urban living pulled us away from this way of life. Today, fewer than 2% of Americans grow their own food.
But something is changing. People are reconnecting with homegrown values, rediscovering the satisfaction of harvesting their own tomatoes or gathering fresh eggs from backyard hens. This movement is fueled by rising grocery costs, concerns over the quality of mass-produced food, and a renewed interest in sustainable living. It’s not just about saving money—it’s about creating something meaningful and healthy.
For me, it began with a small garden and a few chickens. I never imagined how much joy I’d find in growing my own vegetables and sharing the surplus with friends and neighbors. The garden became more than just a source of food—it became a way to connect with the people around me and feel rooted in my community.
The Pandemic’s Influence
The COVID-19 pandemic revealed the fragility of our food systems. When shelves emptied and supply chains broke down, many people turned to gardening for the first time. It wasn’t just a way to grow food—it was a way to regain a sense of control.
During that time, I noticed an incredible surge of interest in backyard gardening. Friends who had never planted a seed before were suddenly asking for tips on growing vegetables. Community gardens blossomed, and neighbors began swapping zucchini and tomatoes. It reminded me of how much we can accomplish when we work together and support each other.
Fresh, Local, and Sustainable
Growing your own food comes with undeniable benefits. Produce picked from your own garden is fresher, more flavorful, and free of the chemicals often used in industrial farming. You know exactly what went into the food you’re eating, and you can trust its quality.
It’s also a win for the environment. By growing your own food, you reduce the need for long-distance transportation, cutting down on greenhouse gas emissions. The average meal travels over 1,500 miles to reach your plate. Home gardening not only shortens that journey but also reduces waste by avoiding unnecessary packaging.
How FreshLocal Connects Growers and Buyers
Even with a thriving garden, many people find themselves with more food than they can use. At the same time, others are searching for fresh, local options. That’s where FreshLocal steps in. The app connects people who grow their own food with neighbors who want to buy it.
FreshLocal uses geolocation to make it easy to find farmstands and sellers nearby. Whether you’re looking for homegrown vegetables, fresh eggs, or local honey, the app helps you connect directly with the people producing it. Sellers can quickly list their items, add photos, and communicate with buyers. It’s a simple way to keep food local and build stronger communities.
Why FreshLocal Matters
This movement thrives on connection. When gardeners, homesteaders, and small-scale farmers share their harvests, it benefits everyone. Surplus food finds a home instead of going to waste, and buyers gain access to fresh, high-quality options they might not find at the store.
FreshLocal also supports sustainability. Every transaction on the app reduces food miles and promotes eco-friendly practices. It’s a platform that values community, quality, and the environment over convenience and mass production.
Join the Movement
The Grow-Your-Own Food movement is about more than planting seeds—it’s about building a healthier future. Whether you’re a seasoned homesteader, a hobby gardener, or someone who simply loves fresh produce, FreshLocal can help you connect with like-minded people.
Setting up your Farmstand on FreshLocal is quick and easy. In just a few minutes, you can list your extra eggs, vegetables, or honey and start connecting with local buyers. Or, if you’re looking to buy, FreshLocal makes it simple to find fresh options right in your community.
Visit our website to learn more: FreshLocal. Or download the app directly: Download FreshLocal. Together, we can grow a healthier, more connected food system.
About the Founder: Anthony (Tony) Urso
Anthony Urso, founder of FreshLocal, has spent over a decade as a passionate gardener and urban homesteader. Living in North Carolina, Tony grows much of his own food and raises chickens and ducks for fresh eggs. His expertise extends to gardening, hydroponics, canning, preserving, and even culinary arts—skills he honed as a professional chef in the 1990s after graduating from Johnson & Wales University.
Tony created FreshLocal to connect people with local growers, reduce food waste, and build stronger communities around fresh, high-quality food. His mission is to make fresh, local food accessible for everyone while empowering small-scale growers to thrive.