DUNBARTON, N.H. (AP) — During harvest time in central New Hampshire, one farm stands out for its diverse crops and multicultural workforce.
Workers at this Dunbarton farm come from various African nations like Burundi, Rwanda, Somalia, and Congo, displaying an impressive array of vegetables and speaking a mix of languages. They harvest both American staples like corn and tomatoes as well as traditional crops such as okra and sorrel, donning bright fabrics from their home countries.
Most of the farmworkers are refugees who have fled hardships in their homelands. They now run small businesses, selling their produce locally and within their ethnic communities. Farming not only provides them with income but also a sense of connection to their roots.
Owned by the Organization for Refugee and Immigrant Success, the farm allows refugees to use the land, providing training and support. The organization oversees similar farms in Concord and Boscawen, with a total of 36 workers from five African countries and Nepal.
Tom McGee, a program director with the nonprofit, emphasizes the independence and purpose that farming brings to these individuals, allowing them to participate in the American dream.
The organization also operates a food market in Manchester, offering fresh produce for purchase or delivery. While there are similar programs nationwide, McGee notes the uniqueness of their model, funded by state and federal resources along with private donations.
One farmer, Sylvain Bukasa, escaped the conflict in Congo and resettled in the U.S. in search of safety. Missing the foods of his homeland, he began growing crops on the farm in 2011, eventually turning it into a commercial venture to meet growing demand.
For Bukasa and many other farmers, agriculture is both a passion and a source of income. Despite facing challenges like watering crops and managing weeds, they find joy in satisfying others with their fresh produce.
Bukasa dreams of owning his own farm one day, where he can grow a variety of crops without waste. With plans to improve his marketing strategies and expand his delivery services, he remains dedicated to his farming journey and the community he serves.
