New CAO of WNY Contract Expands Urban Agriculture Efforts on Buffalo’s East Side

Buffalo, NY – May 14, 2025 – East Side Stewards, a grassroots organization committed to the revitalization and empowerment of Buffalo’s East Side urban spaces, is proud to announce a new contract with the Community Action Organization of WNY (CAO). Under this contract, East Side Stewards will lead the revitalization of their urban farm in the Masten Park neighborhood, expanding their mission of community development through sustainable agriculture. This marks another significant milestone for East Side Stewards, serving as their third stewarded location following the success of the organization’s work at its existing stewarded spaces including CS53 Community Garden and Bailey-Dartmouth Community Garden.

With the keys; officially in hand, East Side Stewards is ready to transform the the site (located at 214 Kingsley St, Buffalo, NY 14208) into a vibrant green space that's serve as a local food source for CAO’s food pantry on 347 East Ferry Street, Buffalo, NY 14208. Our hope for the space is it that will provide nourishment and collective abundance to the surrounding neighborhood.

“Being a part of growing this organization has brought me so much joy and fulfillment. Becoming the urban farm contractor for CAgrO Urban Agriculture is a significant milestone for the transformational work we are cultivating here on Buffalo’s East Side,” said Tendaji Ya’Ukuu, Founder and Community-Planning Director of East Side Stewards.

The new contract represents a shared commitment by East Side Stewards and the CAO of WNY to create tangible solutions for food insecurity, environmental justice, and economic empowerment. The revitalized space will not only serve as a source of fresh, locally grown produce, but also as a platform for youth engagement, agricultural education, and workforce development. East Side Stewards invites community members, local stakeholders, and partners to stay engaged as the transformation begins. To learn more about the project, support their mission, or get involved, please visit (www.eastsidestewards.com/projects/cagrofarm).

About East Side Stewards:

East Side Stewards is a worker's cooperative and community-based organization in Buffalo, NY, dedicated to land stewardship, environmental justice, and community development. Through urban farming, community programming, and neighborhood beautification, the organization strives to empower East Side residents to reclaim and revitalize their neighborhoods.