AAMU-Madison County Partnership Recognized for Community Impact
The People’s Patch Earns Statewide Award for Government Innovation
The People’s Patch Community Farm, a partnership between Alabama A&M University and the Madison County Commission, has earned statewide recognition for its innovative approach to addressing food insecurity, supporting agricultural education and strengthening community engagement.
The farm received the Efficiency and Innovation in County Government Award from the Association of County Commissions of Alabama. The honor recognizes the work of Madison County District 6 Commissioner Violet Edwards, Harvest Manager Jason Andra and partners at AAMU, including the Alabama Cooperative Extension System, to transform a shared vision into a growing community resource.
Established through a five-year agreement between AAMU and the Madison County Commission in 2024, The People’s Patch was created to increase access to fresh, healthy food while providing opportunities for university research, student learning and community education. The Madison County Commission manages daily operations and works closely with AAMU and Alabama Extension on the farm and its outreach activities.
Located along Meridian Street near the AAMU campus, the farm allows residents to harvest fresh produce at no cost. Depending on the growing season, crops include collard, turnip and mustard greens, kale, crowder and purple hull peas, okra, potatoes, corn, watermelon, tomatoes, peppers, squash, green beans and eggplant. Daily harvesting limits may apply based on availability. Current harvest information, hours of operation and farm updates are available on The People’s Patch Facebook page.
Under Andra’s leadership, The People’s Patch has expanded beyond its original mission of growing fresh fruits and vegetables. The farm now includes walking trails, an outdoor classroom and a paddock with goats and sheep, broadening its role as a place for education, recreation and community connection.
Visitors interact with goats at the People’s Patch Community Farm, which provides agricultural education and hands-on learning opportunities for students and community members.
The partnership also creates hands-on opportunities for AAMU students and faculty. Since the farm’s development, students have explored areas such as irrigation and weed mitigation while gaining practical experience in agriculture and food production. The site also supports university research and efforts to strengthen local food systems.
For Edwards, the award reflects what can happen when government, higher education and the community work toward a common goal.
“Our community farm stands as a testament to the dedication of our staff and the unwavering support of our neighbors,” Edwards said. “Together, we turned a shared vision into a meaningful solution, and the farm is proof of what can grow when neighbors come together with purpose, hope and willing hands.”
Photo: Madison County District 6 Commissioner Violet Edwards and Harvest Manager Jason Andra at the People’s Patch.