October 2024 Newsletter
Hello Amazing Mama,
Welcome to October, a season of change, reflection, and abundance. Whether you’re in your third trimester or enjoying life with a little one, fall brings a special opportunity to slow down and nurture both yourself and your growing family. As the air cools and the leaves turn vibrant colors, we’re reminded of the spiritual significance of this season—a time of transformation, gratitude, and connecting with the rhythms of nature.
For many Black, Indigenous, and Latinx communities, October is a month rich in cultural traditions that celebrate life, honor ancestors, and acknowledge the cycles of the earth. From Indigenous harvest ceremonies to the Latinx celebration of Día de los Muertos, these practices remind us of the importance of nourishing our families and ourselves, not only physically but spiritually as well.
If you’re in your third trimester, you’re in a unique period of growth and change. The foods you eat now are vital for both you and your baby, providing the nutrients needed for a healthy pregnancy and preparing you for postpartum recovery. For those of you with babies and toddlers, the foods in your tote are perfect for creating nutritious meals that help fuel the growth and development of your little ones.
This month, your FarmHer to Mama tote is filled with fall produce like squash, root vegetables, apples, and hearty greens—all perfect for comforting, nourishing meals. These seasonal foods are packed with vitamins and minerals that not only support your immune system but also provide the energy needed to care for your little ones.
As you prepare meals with the produce from your tote, know that you’re nourishing your family with love and care, just as our ancestors did. These moments of preparing and sharing food are sacred, and they connect you to the traditions of generations before you.
October is a time to embrace the sacredness of motherhood, to honor your body and your spirit, and to take joy in nourishing your family. We are so grateful to walk this journey with you, providing the fresh, nutritious food that helps fuel this incredible season of life.
With love and autumn blessings,
The FarmerHer to Mama Team
Anne, Anna, Porchea, Virginia, Becca, Allyssa, & Veronica
October Goodies
Eggs from Six Day Farm (Dyer, IN) and Eden Eggs (Crown Point, IN)
Collard Greens from Shannon Farm and Homestead (Gary, IN)
MIcrogreens from Baby Greens Family Farm (Merrillville, IN)
Carrots & Plum Crumb Muffins from Rainfield Farm (New Carlisle, IN)
Honey from Six Day Farm (Dyer, IN)
Winter Squash from Tuholski Produce (La Porte, IN)
Beans from Kankakee Valley Homestead (Walkerton, IN)
Chicken Breasts from Miller Poultry (Orland, IN)
Apples from Garwood Orchard (La Porte, IN)
Foodie Tips
For Mamas in Their Third Trimester: Focus on foods that provide a mix of protein, healthy fats, and fiber—like roasted squash, hearty soups, and leafy greens. These will help sustain your energy and nourish your baby as they prepare for their grand entrance.
For Mamas with Babies and Toddlers: Apples, squash, and root vegetables are perfect for making purees or soft, easy-to-eat finger foods for your little one. These ingredients are gentle on tiny tummies and provide essential nutrients for growth.
Self-Care Tip: Don’t forget to care for yourself. Make time to enjoy a warm, soothing meal, take a relaxing bath, or enjoy a moment of peace outdoors with your baby.
Featured Partner: Erin Sherrow-Hayse, Community Wellness Coordinator, Purdue Extension Nutrition Education Program (NEP)
Hi, I’m Erin Sherrow-Hayse, and I’ve had the privilege of serving as a Community Wellness Coordinator with Purdue University’s Nutrition Education Program (NEP) for the past 16 years. I currently work in Lake and Newton Counties, partnering with local organizations to drive policy, system, and environmental changes that make healthier food and physical activity more accessible for everyone. I’m especially passionate about school and community gardens, trail and park development, and connecting families to resources that make healthier choices possible.
I’m a longtime Lake County resident, living with my husband David and our daughters Grace and Ava. Outside of work, my favorite things are spending time with my girls (and hubby), camping with anyone I can convince to come along, and working on exciting community projects with the amazing partners I’m blessed to work with.
It’s an honor to be part of the FarmHer to Mama program, and I look forward to continuing to make a positive impact alongside all of you!
— Erin Sherrow-Hayse
FarmHer to Mama Farm Tour Recap: A Day of Joy and Healing at Hickory Hills Flower Farm
On September 20, 2024, our FarmHer to Mama community came together for a beautiful, heartwarming day at Hickory Hills Flower Farm in Porter County. The clouds parted to reveal a golden afternoon, with over 130 varieties of flowers in full bloom, creating the perfect backdrop for our moms, babies, and families to gather, connect, and celebrate the beauty of nature.
The day was more than just picking flowers—it was about finding joy, peace, and a sense of community. For many of our moms, it was a chance to step away from the daily challenges of motherhood and take a deep breath. Surrounded by colorful blooms and the gentle flutter of butterflies, moms and babies found comfort and support in each other's company. Whether it was their first outing or one of many, the smiles on the faces of both moms and little ones said it all—this was a day to connect, recharge, and feel uplifted.
The event was a reminder that motherhood is not a journey you have to take alone. It’s about building a village, and that’s exactly what FarmHer to Mama strives to create—a place where moms can feel supported, encouraged, and nourished. Since launching in July 2023, the program has distributed over 600 food totes filled with fresh, nutritious produce, meats, dairy, and more. These totes provide more than just food—they offer connection, recipes, and resources that bring families together around the dinner table.
We are incredibly grateful to Hickory Hills Flower Farm for hosting this memorable day and to all the amazing moms, babies, nurses, and families who attended. Your presence made the day truly special, and we can’t wait to share more experiences with you.
A Look Ahead
November - winter squash, beets, greens, & potatoes!
Join our FarmHer to Mama Facebook Group for support, recipes, tips, & community.
Questions or feedback about the program? We’d love to hear from you! Reach out to Anne (info@nwifoodcouncil.org, 219-313-8828) or Porchea (porchea@nwifoodcouncil.org, 219-316-4556).
