For over a decade, Oakland Avenue Urban Farm (OAUF) has been a pillar of resilience in Detroit’s historic North End, fostering stability and growth in the face of economic challenges. As the hub of a thriving Food Value Chain, OAUF leverages a nationally and internationally recognized model as an equitable Community Food Hub, blending agriculture, art, architecture, and sustainability to create a dynamic agri-cultural landscape. Rooted in a historically African American neighborhood, the farm cultivates more than just food—it cultivates community. By providing fresh, healthy produce, hosting educational initiatives, and creating vibrant gathering spaces, OAUF strengthens the capacity of local food growers, processors, sellers, and consumers. Through sustainable agriculture, cultural programming, and job creation, the farm fuels economic empowerment while shaping a thriving civic commons that will serve the neighborhood for generations to come. Operated by the North End Christian Community Development Corporation, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit, OAUF continues to be a beacon of innovation and leadership in urban agriculture.
https://www.oaklandurbanfarm.org
Farmers Market
Since 2010, Oakland Avenue Urban Farm’s (OAUF) Saturday market has been a proud part of Detroit Community Markets, a network of farmer’s markets coordinated by the Detroit Eastern Market Corporation. OAUF grows over 33 varieties of vegetables and fruits using organic practices and produces a range of value-added products, including herbal teas, eggs, spices, and AfroJam—delicious jams made from locally sourced fruits.
The OAUF Farmers market is open during the month of June – October every Saturday from 11:am – 3:00pm. In addition to our weekly market, the farm offers a “Harvest on Demand” service, allowing customers to visit the Farm’s Community House, located at 9227 Goodwin, Detroit MI. 48211 to request fresh produce five days a week, Monday through Friday, from 10:00 am to 3:00 pm.
Through these efforts, we provide thousands of Detroit area families and residents with access to fresh, locally grown fruits and vegetables that they may not otherwise have. Each year, our goal is to help reduce the carbon footprint of food transportation, minimize handling and contamination risks, and reduce overall ecological waste.
Black Farmer Land Fund
Launched on Juneteenth 2020, the Detroit Black Farmer Land Fund was established by the Detroit Black Community Food Security Network, Keep Growing Detroit, and Oakland Avenue Urban Farm. This initiative supports Black growers and farmers in Detroit by providing funding to purchase land, develop infrastructure, and meet professional development needs. To date, 100+ Black farmers have successfully secured land for production, technical assistance, and shared resources.
The Fund also helped launch the Grow Moore Food Cooperative, which brings together 12 farms that work collaboratively to grow and source food. Our Director, Jerry Ann Hebron, is one of four Black women leading this important work.
Nutrition and Health Programs
For over a decade, Oakland Avenue Urban Farm has been a driving force in advancing food sovereignty in the North End, ensuring that locally grown fruits and vegetables remain at the heart of the community’s diet.
Through our Health and Nutrition Programs, we provide hands-on cooking demonstrations, nutrition education, and native plant workshops, equipping residents with the knowledge and skills to cultivate and prepare nourishing meals. Participants also receive resources to support their personal gardens, reinforcing self-sufficiency and deepening their connection to sustainable food systems.
In partnership with Michigan State University Extension and Henry Ford Health System, we are expanding our health and nutrition initiatives to provide residents with even greater access to expert guidance and holistic wellness education.
All health and nutrition workshops take place during Farmers Market hours, creating a vibrant and interactive space where residents can access fresh, locally grown produce while learning practical ways to enhance their well-being.
