By Jackie Roberts
Contributing Writer
A rare treasure exists only a few minutes away from St. Bonaventure University. Canticle farm is approximately three miles from campus and remains a beacon for environmentally-friendly agriculture.
Canticle Farm, located in Allegany, is a not-for-profit, community-supported organization sponsored by the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany (FSA).
Local residents who dedicate themselves to the success of the organization sponsor the farm. A few main goals of Canticle Farm include educating people in the area on sustainability, growing honest food and donating fresh, healthy food to many lower-income community members.
“In 2000, following the suggestions of the FSA, discussions with ecologists and visits to organic farms, the FSA voted to support the creation of a community-supported agriculture (CSA) project,” according to canticlefarm.org. “The following year, the FSA purchased land from The ReHabilitation Center. The center has been supported by the FSA since its beginnings in the early 1960s. In 2003, Canticle Farm became incorporated as a non-for-profit corporation sponsored by the FSA.”
Sister Joyce Ramage has served as the president of the Franciscan Sisters of Allegany since 2006. As a proud member of the farm, she explained how Canticle is different from any other farm in the area.
“We are certified naturally grown which means that we use earth-friendly methods,” said Sister Joyce. “That means no chemical pesticides, herbicides or fertilizers. Canticle Farm has an annual goal to provide at least 20 percent of the summer harvest to agencies who serve low income families in the Olean and Allegany area.”
“Last year, our fresh, locally-grown vegetables went to the Warming House, Genesis House, The Friendship Table in Bradford, YMCA Women’s Domestic Violence Shelter in Bradford and Cattaraugus Community Action, as well as seven local food pantries,” Sister Joyce said.
Though Canticle Farm serves a great deal to the Olean and Allegany area, many Bona’s students are unaware of the organization.
Freshman education major Stephanie Bellotti said she had never heard of the farm. After learning the farm’s mission, she said she was willing to participate.
“I would be interested in volunteering for an organization like this,” Bellotti said. “It would definitely be something I see the value in.”
Sister Joyce encourages more students to learn about Canticle Farm because of the importance it serves in the area.
“We are committed to connect all peoples and to practice earth-friendly habits,” Sister Joyce said. “Our vision is to be a model for a local, sustainable community farm relying on the recognition of God’s gifts — to nourish mind, body, spirit and earth. Our focus is being local and sustainable, and sharing that with others is much of why Canticle Farm is important.”
She also encourages students to volunteer for the organization. In fact, students have been involved with Canticle Farm from the beginning.
“We have had regular Warming House interns each year as well as others doing volunteer hours and student projects,” Sister Joyce said.
Canticle Farm is a majestic piece of agriculture just minutes away from campus. Bonas students are encouraged to support this local not-for-profit organization. For more information on Canticle Farm, visit canticlefarm.org.
