Right to the Source

All around the world, intentional living communities are sprouting up.  Their aim is to build working models for sustainability and optimal human health. The Source Farm Ecovillage in St. Thomas, Jamaica is working to bring this model to a nation that continues to struggle with the residual impact of colonization and slavery.

Founder Blondel Shirley-Atwater left Jamaica in the 1980s in order to provide her three children with better educational opportunities. Once her children were grown, she returned to her country with a vision to establish a community based on self-sufficiency and healing.

The farm’s healing center will be located inside the first of a series of geodesic domes that are currently under construction. Dome structures are ideal for sustainable living, given that they cost less to build than traditional “box” structures, they use 30 percent less lumber to construct, and they are highly resistant to weather conditions like hurricanes and earthquakes.

Built on 63 acres of tropical forest, the Source Farm is committed to regenerating natural life in the area through education and personal healing. Courses are offered in permaculture and plant/herb research, and villagers share the work of earthbag building, fruit tree planting, and seed saving. Source Farm also promotes holistic health and spirituality by involving the community in meditation and visual arts.

The dome project is roughly $200 short of completion. You can help them out by donating online.  They are also seeking strong, dynamic work exchangers to help them develop a CSA program and further physical infrastructure for the community.  If you are inspired to participate, contact info@thesourcefarm.com.