Support Our Sustainable Community Farm in Puerto Rico

Raven Hutchinson is organizing this fundraiser.

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Dear friends,

Greetings! I hope this message finds you well. I'm reaching out to share an important chapter of my journey that's been unfolding over the past four years. As many of you know, I've been passionately working towards establishing a sustainable regenerative farm with eco-friendly accommodations for short-term stays here in Puerto Rico. What most of you don't know is that for the past several years I've been chasing health issues that have been pretty debilitating and hard to diagnose.

It started with a few trips to the ER after what seemed to me pretty simple tasks that led to finding out I have 2 degenerative discs in my neck. I got extensive help for those acute injuries and have been relearning how to use my body in ways that don't continue to exacerbate the problem. However, the deeper issue is the one that has eaten up the little resources I did have to get the first structures to completion.

After struggling with neuropathy, exhaustion, brain fog, and a myriad of other symptoms, I was diagnosed with Mycotoxicosis caused by several types of molds. It has taken an extensive effort to painstakingly clean and treat my home and belongings, incorporating protocols from experts in mycotoxicity, and air purifiers to finally regain my energy levels and cognitive clarity. Thankfully! Despite these strides, the setbacks have been substantial and have delayed my projects significantly.

This farm was never intended to be a one woman show. Despite facing COVID-19 restrictions during its inception and ongoing health challenges, through determination and a firm belief in this vision, I have persevered. I'm on the verge of completing the first phase of a campsite designed for volunteers to come stay, recruited through WOOFERS and Worldpackers. The first campsite includes essential amenities like a flushing toilet connected to a vermicomposting septic system, a shower, and basic cooking facilities. The Dome structure is ready to be installed, and we have two more rustic campsites cleared that are basic but have level spaces to pitch a tent.

Now this is where I turn to you, my community and beyond, to ask for support to see this vision through. We still need funding for solar power systems, additional building supplies (yikes some of the materials have doubled!), and a few more amenities to make these spaces functional and comfortable. Your contribution will also provide essential support during this critical interim period until the farm tours, sales from goods grown on the land and Dome accommodations begin generating income.

Also, some good news is I've finally begun to build a community of friends here with other organic farmers, entrepreneurs and we have begun to collaborate with each other on exotic plant propagation, food production and helping each other on farm projects. You may also have seen my recent post of acquiring a couple full time 4-legged weed eaters to help keep the jungle at bay. Teehee heh! The chicks we hatched recently are growing fast, so soon we will be able to offer farm fresh eggs with our home-grown breakfasts! I'm so excited to see it finally coming together and can't wait to receive those of you who can make the journey to see this amazing place in person. Many Blessings abound here!