Cultivating Hope: Pratt Home Builders Partners with Crabtree Farms to Strengthen Chattanooga’s Local Food System
Chattanooga, TN – October 2025 – Pratt Home Builders is proud to announce a new community partnership with Crabtree Farms, supporting the Mary Navarre Moore Emerging Farmer Mentorship Program. As part of this initiative, Pratt has constructed a dedicated storage and prep space complete with running water, cold storage, and a mini processing station. This vital facility will give Chattanooga’s next generation of farmers the resources they need to thrive.
Why This Partnership Matters for Chattanooga
In some parts of Hamilton County, residents face limited access to fresh, healthy food. These areas- often referred to as food deserts- are at risk of losing even more resources if local grocery options close. By supporting the Emerging Farmer Mentorship Program, Pratt Home Builders is helping create long-term solutions for Chattanooga’s food insecurity.
The mentorship program, now in its second growing season, provides a 12–36 month pathway for aspiring farmers. Participants gain access to farmland, learn sustainable farm management practices, and connect with the broader Chattanooga community. Already, the program’s first cohort of farmers is making an impact on the local food system by growing and distributing fresh produce where it’s needed most.
Building More Than Homes
“At Pratt, we believe in building more than homes—we build communities,” said Nerren Pratt, Vice President of Construction at Pratt Home Builders.“Partnering with Crabtree Farms allows us to invest in the future of local farming while also supporting the health and sustainability of our community. We’re honored to play a role in creating the resources these farmers need to thrive.”
The newly built facility will serve as a central hub for the program, giving farmers a safe and efficient place to wash, store, and process their crops. This infrastructure is a game-changer for emerging farmers, allowing them to focus on growing food and building sustainable businesses.
Growing Together: Crabtree Farms’ Vision
Since its founding in 1998, Crabtree Farms has worked to cultivate a stronger and healthier food system for Chattanooga.
“Through the Emerging Farmer Mentorship Program, four aspiring farmers have access to land, tools, and resources to start their own farming journeys,” said Cherita Rice, Marketing & Communications Coordinator at Crabtree Farms. “This new space provided by Pratt Home Builders helps take our vision of sustainable farming and community development to the next level.”
For more on how food deserts affect urban areas and why local farming matters, check out this resource from the USDA on Food Access Research.
About Pratt Home Builders
For more than 25 years, Pratt Home Builders has created over 2,700 homes across Greater Chattanooga. With a focus on expert design, personalized care, and peace of mind warranties, Pratt is committed to building quality homes and lasting relationships in the communities they serve. Learn more at www.prattliving.com.
Pictured above is a prime Pratt Home Builders community, Bainbridge Park in Ooltewah, TN
About Crabtree Farms
Crabtree Farms is a Chattanooga-based nonprofit dedicated to growing a healthy, sustainable, and just food system. Through education, community engagement, and farmer mentorship, Crabtree Farms cultivates both land and people, ensuring a thriving local food culture for generations to come. Learn more at www.crabtreefarms.com.
Pictured above are volunteers and farmers at Crabtree Farms
