Weavers Way Farms

Philadelphia, PA

Weavers Way Farms, owned and operated by Weavers Way Co-op, is a community-focused initiative in Philadelphia committed to providing learning opportunities and ethically sustainable food. The farm operates on two sites, one in Awbury Arboretum and the other at Saul High School, covering a total of 5 acres dedicated to vegetable production and a growing orchard. Utilizing regenerative techniques and avoiding chemical pesticides and fertilizers, Weavers Way is able to grow over 50 varieties of vegetables, fruit, and flowers, including paw paws (North America’s largest native fruit), hazelnuts, blackberries and figs. The farm then contributes all of its produce to their three (soon to be four) co-ops, where Philadelphians can pick out local, organic and nutritious foods. 

Apprentices at Weavers Way will participate in a wide variety of farming tasks from seeding and transplanting to caring for annual vegetable crops during the cultivation process. The hands-on experience extends to the operation of specialized equipment like the Jang seeder and the Farmer's Friend greens harvester. Apprentices also gain proficiency in post-harvest activities such as washing and processing vegetables for market. The learning experience encompasses practices like trellising, irrigation, and pest management without resorting to chemical interventions. 

Weavers Way has a rich and dynamic history, evolving from a grassroots initiative in 1973, when Jules Timerman founded a co-op in Mt. Airy with the vision of offering fresher, more affordable produce to the community. Over the years the cooperative expanded its footprint, establishing multiple locations, including Chestnut Hill and Ambler. The organization's commitment to healthy, sustainable food practices became prominent in 1990, marking a shift toward organic produce and fair food practices. Today, Weavers Way is a thriving cooperative with over 10,000 member households, playing a pivotal role in the local communities it serves.

Through Weavers Way Farms and Food Moxie, the cooperative actively involves community members and students in educational programs, providing hands-on experiences in farming, gardening, and nutrition. The farm sites at Awbury Arboretum and Saul High School not only supply fresh produce to Weavers Way stores but also serve as educational hubs. The cooperative collaborates with local schools, including Martin Luther King High School and W.B. Saul Agricultural High School, illustrating its commitment to youth education. Weavers Way prioritizes sourcing from local suppliers, supporting the regional economy, and emphasizing diversity, equity, and inclusion through initiatives like the Vendor Diversity Project.