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Nestled in the heart of Manhattan, Kansas, A+H Farms stands as a testament to family heritage, agricultural innovation, and community engagement. Owned and operated by Andrea and Hugo DeJesus, along with their eight children, this fourth-generation family farm has evolved from its humble beginnings into a vibrant hub of agritourism and education.

A Legacy of Farming

The roots of A+H Farms trace back to the 1940s when Andrea's grandfather began farming. Over the decades, the passion for agriculture has been passed down through each generation. Andrea herself attended her first farmers market at just two weeks old, setting the stage for a lifetime deeply intertwined with farming.

After pursuing degrees in accounting and becoming a certified public accountant, Andrea and Hugo, a former Army serviceman, decided to return to Andrea's hometown to continue the family farming tradition. However, taking over the family farm didn’t happen overnight. When the opportunity arose, Andrea purchased the farm from her mother and, through a mix of determination, innovation, and community support, turned it into what it is today.

Expanding A+H Farms with ESB Financial

Like many small business owners, Andrea knew that growing A+H Farms into a successful agritourism destination would require strategic financial support. That’s where ESB Financial came in.

Through business banking solutions, ESB has helped A+H Farms invest in its growth, making it possible to expand their operations and continue providing fresh, local produce to the community.

"Working with ESB has been a great experience," Andrea shares. "It’s not like dealing with a big bank where everything is a hassle. I can call up Ross at ESB, talk through what I need, and get real, personal support for my business. They’ve made our farm’s growth a smooth and stress-free process."

Through the years, A+H Farms has been able to increase its agritourism experiences, improve farm operations, and introduce new attractions, ensuring that families can continue to enjoy farm life for generations to come.

Diversification and Growth

A+H Farms is committed to diversifying its offerings to meet the needs and interests of the community. The farm produces a wide array of fruits and vegetables, ensuring fresh, homegrown produce is available throughout the season. In 2018, they introduced the "Kid Zone," featuring attractions like a rope maze, tug of war, princess playhouses, and a rock wall, providing wholesome fun for all ages. The farm also houses various animals that play a vital role in soil improvement and offer visitors a glimpse into farm life.

Farm-to-Table Initiatives

Emphasizing the importance of fresh, local produce, A+H Farms offers Farm-to-Table Boxes. This initiative allows households to become "shareholders" by committing to purchasing produce before the growing season. In return, the farm dedicates its resources to growing crops specifically for these shareholders, providing them with fresh, peak-of-ripeness produce each week.

This model supports the farm financially during critical times and ensures consumers receive high-quality, locally-sourced food.

Community Engagement and Recognition

Andrea’s dedication extends beyond the farm’s boundaries. As the President of the Downtown Farmers’ Market of Manhattan, she collaborates with other markets to implement programs like SNAP, making fresh produce accessible to a broader audience.

In 2017, the DeJesus family was honored as the Farm Family of the Year by the Kansas Farm Bureau, recognizing their contributions to agriculture and the community.

A Destination for All

Today, A+H Farms is more than just a place to purchase fresh produce. It’s a destination where families can experience the joys of farm life, from picking strawberries to exploring the petting zoo.

With the addition of a bakery and "The Grain Bin" bar, visitors can enjoy homemade treats and themed drinks, enhancing their farm visit. The farm continually evolves, adding new products, events, and attractions to provide a fun, educational, and memorable experience for all.

Rooted in Tradition, Growing for the Future

A+H Farms exemplifies how dedication to tradition, innovation, and community can create a thriving agricultural enterprise that benefits both the land and its people. With ESB Financial’s support, Andrea and Hugo DeJesus have been able to take their vision and turn it into a sustainable, growing business that continues to enrich the lives of their customers and community.

Want to experience A+H Farms for yourself? Visit aandhfarm.com to learn more about their offerings, upcoming events, and how you can support this incredible local farm!