Local Work

At the farm, volunteers and staff grow food and learn with the land through hands-on experiences.

West Michigan Farm and Ministry

The way people grow and distribute food makes a difference for the health of the planet and its people. At Plainsong, we grow food using regenerative methods that care for soil and water. We teach people of all ages about food, agriculture and the environment as we grow. That food is sold on a sliding scale as community supported agriculture harvest shares, and given away to people who couldn’t otherwise afford it through partnerships with pantries and food justice agencies. 
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Everybody eats. Everybody has a part to play in developing a food system that will support life and health, now and in the future.
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As disciples of Jesus, our work is motivated by the recognition that this world is a sacred creation. For those who share this faith, we also provide opportunities for spiritual growth and discovery at the farm. Our Sabbath at the Farm seasonal worship series, half-day retreats for individuals and small groups, service/learning visits for youth and our residential young adult program combine to cultivate a renewed Christianity integrating care for the earth.

Plainsong Virtual Tour

Learn more about the ways we grow food and care for our place through the virtual tour below. Thanks to the Wege Foundation for funding this virtual tour and to the Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds for developing it with us! The farm is always growing; this tour is from 2020. To see the tour on the Virtual Tour Guys site, click here.

Local History

2016

Plainsong is recognized by Heart of West Michigan United Way for providing good food through community partner North Kent Connect.

2017

Plainsong begins collaborating with the Lower Grand Organization of Watersheds on farm-based education programs for public school students.

2019

Weekly Sabbath at the Farm quickly grows a community of all ages and backgrounds who appreciate seasonal outdoor opportunities to connect with God and one another.

2020

When Sabbath at the Farm is cancelled due to the pandemic, Plainsong begins a Pattern Days program so people can connect to God safely, in separate households, outside. We begin donating produce to Grand Rapids Community College’s Student Food Pantry.

2021

Plainsong launches our farm volunteer program, enabling people of all ages to grow together, both in groups and as individuals.