Sowing Seeds of Health with the Jamaican Farm Mom

As the host of “Out & About with Antionette,” I’m always excited to spotlight movers and shakers making a positive impact across Delaware. But there are interviews that especially fill my heart with joy and inspiration, and this week’s chat with the dynamic Michelle Washington, known to many as the Jamaican Farm Mom, is right at the top of that list!

If you’ve ever wondered what it really takes to run a community-rooted farm, overcome daunting challenges, and do it all while nourishing your neighbors with love (and the freshest eggs and veggies you’ve ever tasted), you *need* to listen to this episode.

Introduction to a Powerhouse

Michelle and her husband are the driving force behind Jamaican Farm Mom and Washington Campbell Farming LLC, based in Newark, Delaware. Their journey is a testament to generational knowledge—I learned that both of them come from families of farmers, and that ancestral wisdom shines through every seedling they sow.

Not only do Michelle and her husband cultivate a bountiful spread of fruits, veggies, and herbs—they also produce all-natural, low-sugar preserves, cold-pressed juices, and fresh eggs from their own chickens. As a fellow diabetic, I can vouch for how wonderful it is to find tasty, truly health-conscious options at their table.

You can find Michelle and her husband at the Glasgow Park Farmers Market from May through October every Thursday (3PM to 7PM), and they make regular appearances at wellness and vendor events across the state—so keep your eyes peeled!

From Jamaica to Delaware: Farming as a Way of Life

One of my favorite moments in this episode is hearing Michelle talk about her earliest memories of farming in Jamaica, walking among plantain fields and soaking up wisdom from her aunt, a beekeeper and the first female farmer Michelle ever knew.

Her family’s journey continued after moving to the States, where her father started a backyard garden—little did they know it would spark a lifelong love for growing food. For Michelle, farming isn’t just a profession. It’s therapy, it’s family, and it’s a lifeline—especially as she navigates raising a son with autism and managing her own wellness as a diabetic.

Michelle candidly shared how her family’s dietary needs (from avoiding dyes for her son, to making dishes that work for cancer survivors and others managing chronic illnesses) directly shaped what they grow and how they sell it. It’s so much deeper than dirt and seeds—it’s about health, healing, and hope.

Let’s Talk Soursop, SNAP, and Making Healthy Food Accessible

This might be one of the few places you’ll hear about the wonders of soursop! Michelle explained how this tropical fruit is beloved by many cancer survivors (some say it even replaces chemo), with both the leaves and fruit credited for various healing properties. It’s just one of the many unique and meaningful offerings on their table.

But what truly moved me was how Michelle and her husband have made it their mission to keep their farm’s bounty accessible. They accept SNAP, WIC, and senior program benefits, which is key for making farm-fresh goods available to everyone. As Michelle pointed out, “There is no excuse not to purchase from you.” Healthy food isn’t supposed to be a luxury in Delaware—and they’re leading the way, one CSA box at a time.

The Untold Challenges of Black Farmers

We dove deep into the hurdles Black farmers encounter. Michelle didn’t sugarcoat it: accessing funding and resources can be extremely difficult—especially as most grants are geared toward nonprofits, while she and her husband run a for-profit operation. Add on to that delayed government programs, weather disasters, and business red tape, and it’s clear that farming is as much about grit and perseverance as it is about planting seeds.

Her advice: find a mentor, lean on your community, reach out for help (never let pride stop you!), and remember your mission. I loved the story of other local Black female farmers banding together—if one is low on eggs or greens, the others step in, keeping dollars and support circulating in the community.

The Human Side: Growing a Farm, Growing a Partnership

Michelle and her husband’s story even has a romantic twist. Their first date was at a community garden, and after facing unexpected turns in life—including navigating postpartum struggles—farming became both their livelihood and therapy. I loved hearing how they balance business with romance (no farm talk on date night is the rule!) and work together to serve and advocate for their customers.

LISTEN to the Whole Episode

This episode isn’t just about farming—it’s about resilience, resourcefulness, and the importance of investing in local Black businesses. Michelle’s wisdom and warmth leap through your earbuds, and her practical advice for new and growing farmers could change how you look at local food forever.

We talk certifications, the nitty-gritty of running a real farm, what’s inside a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) box, and why it’s vital to support local food producers—especially as healthcare, supply chains, and community wellness become ever more pressing topics.

I invite you to listen to the entire episode for:

– Heartfelt, practical tips from a thriving local farmer
– Real talk about family, health, and overcoming obstacles
– A powerful call to support Black farmers and invest in your local economy
– Inspiration to make the healthy choice the easy choice for your family and your community

Whether you’re a fellow Delawarean, an aspiring urban farmer, or just someone passionate about community upliftment, Michelle’s story will fill you with hope and determination.

Ready to dig in? Find the episode on your favorite podcast platform and be sure to visit Jamaican Farm Mom and Washington Campbell Farming LLC at www.wcfde.org. And don’t forget to check out the Black Farmers Index to support farmers in your area!

Let’s keep nourishing each other—on and off the air.

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