On August 1, Majestic Farms hosted its annual Community Gleaning Event, where families helped harvest 600 pounds of blueberries for student meals in Hockinson School District, Battle Ground Public Schools, Camas School District, Evergreen Public Schools, Ridgefield School District and Washougal School District.

At the event this year, Chartwells Area Director Hossein Akhtarkhavari presented Jeff Moyes, owner of Majestic Farms, with a Preferred Farmer of the Year award for his contributions to area schools.

“Serving fresh, locally grown blueberries allows us to offer meals that are not only nutritious but also taste great,” said Hossein Akhtarkhavari, Chartwells Area Director. “Partnerships like this help us deliver high-quality food that students enjoy.”

“When students know their food was picked just down the road, it changes how they see their meals,” said Joshua Brown-Silva, Director of Dining Services. “Majestic Farms helps students feel more connected to what’s on their plate.”

A local family picking blueberries on the farm

This marks the fifth consecutive year that Hockinson School District has received generous donations from Majestic Farms, a testament to the enduring partnership and commitment to the community.

School nutrition teams across the region are planning a special day with blueberry-themed meals on the menu in the 2025-26 school year. The exact date will be announced in late August. Throughout the year, blueberries are incorporated into farm-to-table student meals, such as blueberry muffins and salads.

Majestic Farm also provides job opportunities for students by hiring approximately 15 students from Hockinson, Battle Ground and Ridgefield school districts every year.

This partnership reflects Chartwells’ commitment to serving local foods, supporting local communities, and reducing their carbon footprint. It also illustrates how schools and local farms can work together to support students and build community relationships.