New Farmstore will Enhance Local Food Access in Prince William County
Sunshine Honey Farm, a ten-acre farm in Prince William County, is taking the next step in its mission to preserve green space and promote local agriculture by establishing an on-site farmstore.
With the help of the Prince William County Department of Economic Development & Tourism (PWCDEDT), the farm applied for and won a Virginia Department of Agriculture and Consumer Services (VDACS) Office of Agriculture and Forestry Development (AFID) Infrastructure Grant, which will be matched by Prince William County for a total of $49,450.
This new addition will provide a dedicated space to showcase and sell farm-raised meats, fresh vegetables, honey, and handmade products—offering customers a more convenient and traditional shopping experience.
“Our national food supply chain broke down during the COVID-19 pandemic, but local farmers continued to provide for our community,” said Nina Fleischauer, co-owner of Sunshine Honey Farm. “By investing in small farms, we can strengthen our local food system and encourage other landowners to start farming for the community.”
The AFID Infrastructure Program is focused on awarding reimbursable grants primarily for capital projects at new and existing food hubs, farmers’ markets, commercial kitchens and other value-added facilities such as those used for processing and packaging meats, dairy products, produce, or other Virginia agricultural products.
"Local, family-owned farms play a vital role in making Prince William County such a desirable place to live and work," said Chair Deshundra Jefferson, Prince William Board of County Supervisors. "Sunshine Honey Farm contributes to our community's economy, grows and sells fresh, healthy food, and helps preserve some of the open space and character that make our county a hidden gem."
For years, Sunshine Honey Farm has welcomed the community through a small farm stand on Lonesome Road. Open from June to December, this market has connected local consumers to farm-fresh foods despite the challenges of weather, dust, and even persistent wildlife (including a determined bird with a fondness for muffins).
Virginia Delegate Ian Lovejoy, Brentsville District Supervisor Tom Gordy and Paige Thacker of the Virginia Cooperative Extension – Prince William County wrote letters of support for the grant application.
“The Fleischauers, along with their children, make the most of their 10 acres by raising cows, pigs, and chickens with a clear focus on supporting local food needs,” said Gordy. “This unique, multigenerational operation not only embodies the spirit of Virginia agriculture, but also strengthens our community’s connection to locally sourced, sustainable food.”
With the new farmstore, all products—including beef, pork, chicken, turkey, eggs, honey, and vegetables—will be displayed in one convenient location. The new space will feature a refrigerated display, a freezer, and a climate-controlled environment, ensuring food remains fresh and free from dust or moisture. It will also provide space for handmade farm-inspired goods, including photographs, candles, soap, and fabric crafts—items that current space limitations prevent them from selling.
“Our team worked hard to support this grant application because agribusiness is a cornerstone of our county’s economic resilience and sustainability,” said Christina Winn, executive director, PWCDEDT. “Without investment in small farms and local food systems, we risk losing not only a key industry but also the self-sufficiency that keeps our community strong. Supporting agribusiness is not optional—it’s a strategic necessity for building a thriving, competitive economy in Prince William County and beyond.”
Beyond providing healthy, locally sourced food, Sunshine Honey Farm is committed to education and regenerative agriculture. Customers from Prince William County, Loudoun, Alexandria, Arlington, and Montgomery County, MD frequent their farm stand, eager to experience the high-quality food and personal connection that comes from knowing their farmer.
Nina and Andrew take time every selling day to teach visitors—whether it’s explaining different chicken sounds to a five-year-old or discussing whole-animal butchery with an interested home cook. Their Berkshire hogs play an essential role in sustainable farming, naturally clearing invasive vines from their walnut grove.
“The beauty of Nokesville is that we’re right on the edge of suburban life,” Nina said. “When customers visit our farm stands, they get more than great food—they experience the peaceful countryside and the importance of preserving our rural spaces.”
