PAT’S PASTURED MEAT & POULTRY CSA
What is a "CSA”? CSA stands for Community Supported Agriculture. It is a way for the food-buying public to enter into a relationship with a farm and to receive a share of the harvest. By making a financial commitment to a farm, people become "members" (or "shareholders), of the CSA. This effort represents a formal mechanism for more affordably supplying meats that are raised locally, ethically, sustainably, and humanely.
What does it mean to be a member?
As a member, you will:
*be committed to a monthly package
*receive priority ranking for special products such as Thanksgiving turkeys
*earn right of first refusal on membership renewal for each season
*be welcome to attend one of our farm tours (Dates TBA) at no charge
*receive priority registration on scheduled farm events
*most importantly, be assured of continuous availability of product for your family instead of taking the risk that we may not have availability throughout the year.
If you prefer to pay by check please fill in this form and send with your payment to Pat's Pastured 830 South Rd, East Greenwich, RI 02818. You may also bring your form to any of our farmers markets. A complete list is here.
F.A.Q.
Can I specify which cuts I get?
No, we're sorry. We make every effort to distribute the cuts randomly and fairly, this is logistically challenging enough so that we can’t accommodate special requests.
Can I skip the pork/chicken/eggs and get double beef instead, etc?
No. Sorry. (See above.)
I live alone and cannot eat that much meat / poultry. Can I buy a half-share?
We are not able to offer half-shares but we have a number of members who make arrangements directly with neighbors or friends to divide a share in a way that works for them.
I can’t make the scheduled pick-up. Can I pick up the following week instead?
It is your responsibility to pick up your share on the scheduled days. If you are unable to do so yourself, you should make arrangements to have someone pick up for you. That being said, we certainly understand that emergencies arise and can accommodate changes/special arrangements on a very limited basis.
What's in a Meat Share package?
Each month's share will usually be a mixture of whole chicken, a mix of grilling and braising pork and beef, and a dozen eggs. The composition will be different depending on what is seasonally available...that's the beauty of eating locally and in season.
Am I going to get stuck with chicken feet or a beef tongue?
No, but those items may be available à la carte. We do not include offal or organ meats in the general shares.
How does the meat come packaged?
It is package in a cryovac packaging. This packaging preserves the meats quality and allows it to be stored in a freezer for several months. All meat is frozen per requirements of the RI Health Department.
Where is the pick up site?
Pre-assembled share packages are delivered to two distribution sites (Hope Market and the Farm Store) based on the pick up location you indicate on your registration form.
Am I required to work at the farm as part of the CSA?
We do not currently require work hours to be included in our CSA, however we strongly recommend that you get involved and get out to the farm as much as your schedule allows. There are many ways you can help on the farm (while learning and having fun at the same time) from weekly egg-washing to special work day events. Being on the farm is a great way to really experience the community in Community Supported Agriculture!
What if I want to cancel? Can I get a refunds?
When you register you are committing for the full six month season. If for some reason you are unable to receive your share you may obtain a refund by finding someone to replace you or take over your CSA. We are unable to give refunds directly.