Queensbridge is known for NBA star Ron Artest (aka Metta Sandiford-Artest), WNBA star Chamique Holdsclaw, musician Nas, and Police Commissioner Keechant Sewell. But from now on, the Long Island City public housing development will be known for fresh tomatoes, garlic, and zucchini. (Eggs, juices, and baked goods, too!)
Queensbridge Urban Farm Stand launches at the community center at 10-25 41st Ave. on April 25. It will operate there every Thursday from 3 pm to 5 pm with sliding scale prices.
A collaboration between Connected Chef and local artist Suga Ray, the initiative aims to bring high quality, nutrient dense, local produce to those who have limited access to it. As part of the program, Suga Ray will lead discussions around healthy eating and how food impacts mental and emotional wellness. The Juice ‘N’ Play Power Hour will provide goodies, too, and board games will be available.
Connected Chef, which is now in its fourth year, runs another farm stand at 49-09 5th St. in Long Island City on Thursdays and Fridays from 2 pm to 6 pm and on Saturdays, from 11 am to 2 pm.
“Fresh produce is a human right and our goal with this farm stand is to bring the highest quality ingredients from our BIPOC farm partners directly to the people here in Queensbridge,” stated Connected Chef Co-founder Kim Calichio. “It’s about access, joy, and building community power.”
Suga Ray is an ordained minister, meditation guide, and certified professional life coach dedicated to storytelling, filmmaking, and the spoken word. He recently completed an Art Residency at MoMA PS1, and his work has been featured at Flux Factory and the Museum of the Moving Image.
“Next to breathing, eating is the most sacred thing we do as humans,” he stated. “So, to provide fresh and healthy food on a sliding scale is one of the best things we can do for my community at this time.”
Editor’s note: Connected Chef’s Spring BBQ Fundraiser is at 49-09 5th St. on Saturday, May 11, from noon to 4 pm. The event will feature Prince Abou meats and farm fresh veggies, a vendor market, a Mariachi band, kiddie activities, and specialty Mother’s Day bouquets from Queens Perennial.
