The Black Harvest Dinner Series highlights and supports black-owned businesses and leaders in the culinary and hospitality industry.
Christa Barfield hosted an inaugural Black Harvest Dinner on October 21, 2023.
Christa, whose name is synonymous with her brand and business FarmerJawn, held the dinner event at her Westtown Farm, located at 1225 E. Street Road in West Chester, PA. “This series pays homage to the diverse facets of black food culture, from the unwavering dedication of growers to the innovative creations of product makers, all while highlighting the incredible contributions made by Black creators in every industry,” as stated in a press release from FarmerJawn’s Outreach Coordinator, Melissa Warren.
The dinner series highlights black-owned farms, chefs, and other businesses within the region. This is the first of several Black Harvest Dinners she has planned and was led by Guest Chef Ian Baker, an instructor at Cheyney University. The university is the first historically Black university and continues to be a leader in pioneering higher education for African Americans.
Like Cheyney University, Christa is paving the way for future generations too. According to FarmerJawn’s website, one of her goals is to end food insecurity within the Philadelphia and surrounding neighborhoods. One way she has accomplished this is by collaborating with local schools and universities to educate students on farming, sustainability, and the importance of eating healthy, nutrient-rich meals–while providing hands-on learning opportunities.
Those same opportunities were embraced by first-year students from Cheyney University’s Hotel, Restaurant, and Tourism Management Program. According to Chef Baker, it was the first time the students had hands-on experience assisting in prep work in the kitchen, dining hall set up for dinner service, and assisting as waiters.
So, with sweeping views of Christa’s Westtown Farm and FarmerJawn Produce and Kitchen, guests indulged in a cocktail hour, harvest table, and menu—all prepared with freshly picked produce from the farm, which was prepared and served by the students under Chef Baker’s tutelage.
If you would like to learn more about Christa Barfield, FarmerJawn, and opportunities to join an event or become a FarmerJawn Community Supported Agricultural member, please visit https://www.farmerjawn.co/
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