SOUTH DEERFIELD — To limit staff and customers’ risk of exposure to COVID-19, the Atlas Farm Store has transitioned to an entirely curbside pickup model.
“This was not an easy decision to arrive at, but we believe it is the best way to continue to serve our community while keeping staff and customers safe,” said Kelly Hickey, general store manager at Atlas Farm Store.
The store at 218 Greenfield Road is one of many food providers in Franklin County that has adjusted its business model to suit social distancing guidelines and accommodate customers seeking fresh, local food. Last week, Quabbin Harvest Food Co-op in Orange added remote ordering and curbside pickup options. Prior to that, four local farms teamed up to launch the Sunderland Farm Collaborative, a group of farmers offering home delivery to their customers. Likewise, Franklin Community Co-op and Greening Greenfield are collaborating to create Neighbor to Neighbor, a project to get food and other essential items to people who are unable to leave their homes.
Atlas Farm Store’s doors have been closed to all in-person shopping. The store’s new online ordering form, which can be accessed at atlasfarm.com, launched this week. Delivery is available Monday to Saturday, between 9 a.m. and 5 p.m.
First-time customers must set up an online account with Atlas Farm. From there, customers can begin adding items to their online cart. Payments can be made online by credit card or using a market share, or in-person using cash, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) benefits or Healthy Incentives Program (HIP) benefits.
Customers will be alerted by email when their food package is ready for pickup. When they arrive, customers can call 413-397-3587 and their orders will be brought outside.
Customers should allow two to three hours for orders to be ready for pickup, according to the store’s website. For same-day pickup, orders must be submitted by 3 p.m.
Food and agriculture are considered essential services, according to Gov. Charlie Baker’s recent executive order. Atlas Farm said in a statement that all aspects of the farm are operating with “increased attention” to worker hygiene and social distancing.
“We believe that access to local food is a cornerstone of community resilience in tough times,” noted Rosemary Bateman, Atlas Farm’s retail produce manager.
Mary Byrne can be reached at mbyrne@recorder.com or 413-772-0261, ext. 263.