Jennifer Garner, the beloved celebrity known for her relatability and down-to-earth personality, has embarked on a heartfelt mission that combines the preservation of family history with the nourishment of children. Garner’s dedication to preserving her family’s past while making a positive impact on young lives is truly inspiring.
Garner’s mother, Patricia English Garner, holds precious memories from her childhood spent on a farm in Locust Grove, Oklahoma. Patricia fondly remembers how her parents acquired the land, which has been in the family for generations. In 1936, with a bonus her father received from his service in World War I, Patricia’s parents purchased the land for only $700. It included a two-room house and 20 acres, with the exception of 1 acre housing a Native American cemetery at its core.
The journey to the property was not without obstacles. Patricia recalls how her parents had to hire someone to transport them to the land since they didn’t own a car at the time. Negotiations over a $20 difference in price took all day, but they eventually sealed the deal, solidifying the land as a lasting part of their family’s history.
Despite humble beginnings and lacking amenities like running water and indoor plumbing, Patricia’s upbringing on that 20-acre property was filled with precious memories. However, as family members grew and moved away, the farm changed hands multiple times over the years.
In 2017, Jennifer Garner made the decision to reclaim her family’s legacy by purchasing the farm. Her vision went beyond nostalgia; she aimed to breathe new life into the property and transform it into a thriving business once again.
To accomplish this feat, Garner enlisted the help of her uncle Robert and aunt Janet, who were former owners of the farm. After four decades of neglect, the farm, which was once a bustling center for pecans, lettuce, radishes, and potatoes, was ready for a revival.
Under the banner of “Once Upon a Farm,” a collaborative effort between Garner, co-founders Ari Raz, John Foraker, and Cassandra Curtis, the farm was rejuvenated with the mission of growing organic fruits and vegetables to create nutritious foods for children.
Established in 2018, the project aimed to bring baby food back to its organic roots. Garner shared her long-held dream, stating, “Once upon a time… we dreamed of bringing baby food back to the roots with organic fruits and veggies harvested from local farmers, blended with love and served fresh from the fridge.”
Jennifer Garner’s commitment to preserving her family’s history while nourishing children through “Once Upon a Farm” truly exemplifies her passion and dedication. By transforming her family’s farm into a thriving business, she has not only created a legacy but also inspired others to embrace their roots and pursue their dreams.
