Friends of Holly Hill Farm closed a $4.9 million fundraising drive, securing the 5.23‑acre property in Cohasset on 28 September 2026. The nonprofit, led by Executive Director Meredith Laban, matched the town’s $1 million community preservation grant and closed the deal with a formal deed of sale.
The deed includes a Conservation Restriction jointly held by Wildlands Trust and the Town of Cohasset, a legal safeguard that bars any future development on the 3.8‑acre parcel not already protected. "This restriction guarantees our farm will stay on the land for generations," Laban said during the signing ceremony.
The farm will keep its historic 1785 barn, a 178‑square‑foot structure that houses the year‑round farm stand, and will add a heated indoor classroom with a working kitchen for teaching. Planned upgrades also cover improved traffic flow, expanded parking, and new restrooms, all aimed at supporting the Farm‑to‑Food Pantry program and the SHARES initiative that distributes produce to nine local pantries.
More than 20,000 students from over 40 schools across the South Shore and Boston have already benefited from field‑trip and classroom programs each year, and the farm’s summer workshops continue to attract adults from the community. "Our mission was built on education and stewardship," said Board Chair Mark DeGiacomo, noting the farm’s role as a regional resource.
FHHF will now launch a second fundraising round to cover the next phase of renovations and to sustain operations. The nonprofit expects to host a community event in early 2027 to announce the new indoor classroom and to welcome the next cohort of students.