Plymouth’s beloved Gateway Farm needs urgent assistance to continue
Pictured are youngsters who attended a recent Gateway Farm youth camp.
Gateway Farm, a certified organic farm in Plymouth, Michigan, has been serving the region for nearly a decade.
Its current owner is retiring, and new ownership must provide payment in earnest by Dec. 31 to keep the farm operating.
Without it, Gateway Farm will close.
For years, Gateway Farm has been a trusted place to access fresh organic food and connect with nature.
Multiple community-enhancing programs
Through its farm stand, CSA program, seasonal events, volunteer opportunities, and hands-on education, the farm has welcomed thousands of families, students, chefs, and neighbors.
It supplies top quality organic produce to local households, hosts school visits and children’s camps, supports vocational programs for adults with disabilities, trains and builds skills of dozens of staff and volunteers each year, while bringing the community together for farm-to-table dinners, markets, and wellness classes.
As one of the few remaining organic green spaces in a rapidly developing area, Gateway Farm also plays a crucial ecological role. Its growing methods support soil health, nurture wildlife, and keep nutrient-dense food accessible close to home.
“Gateway Farm has always been about more than food,” the team shared. “It’s a place where people slow down, learn together, support one another, and feel connected to the land. Seeing a child pull a carrot from the soil for the first time or watching neighbors gather for a shared meal reminds us why farms like this matter.”
Urgency of the moment
Bridget O’Brien, Co-Director of Gateway Farm, spoke to the urgency of the moment.
“I’m fearful that we could lose something irreplaceable, and at the same time deeply hopeful,” O’Brien said. “The community interest and support coming forward gives us real reason to believe in a new future for the farm.”
Co-Director Dr. Charlie Brennan highlighted the legacy already created.
“The work that has happened here has been exceptional,” Brennan said. “The learning, the shared moments, the sense of belonging — these are things most people never get to experience at this scale. We very much hope the farm can continue to serve future generations.”
Well-positioned for strong financial future
O’Brien noted that the farm is also well-positioned for a strong financial future.
“We’re already three years into a five-year path to profitability,” she explained. “With modest short-term investment, the farm is positioned to thrive — and even expand into an on-site farm to table restaurant, event space, and animal sanctuary.”
Gateway Farm exists today thanks to the vision and generosity of its current owner, Mary Emmet, and the Emmet family, whose belief in the mission made nearly ten years of community impact possible.
Search is on to carry on next chapter
The search is now underway for mission-aligned owners who can continue this work and help the farm grow into its next chapter.
Gateway Farm has an experienced team and directors in place, ensuring continuity for current programs and day-to-day operations.
A short video overview of Gateway Farm can be found at www.gatewayfarmplymouth.com/invest
For inquiries, proposals, interviews, photos, or farm visits, please contact: Bridget O’Brien and Dr. Charlie Brennan by emailing director@gatewayfarmplymouth.com or calling 734-829-2645.
