Celebrating 40 Years of Nourishing Our Community
Since 1985, New Leaf Community Markets has grown alongside Santa Cruz, staying close to our mission of bringing fresh, high-quality food to every neighborhood we serve. Now, as we celebrate 40 years, we remain deeply committed to the values that shaped our beginning—supporting local farmers and makers, championing sustainability, and nourishing the community that has supported us from the start.
At New Leaf, we’re more than a market—we’re a gathering place where neighbors connect, farmers are celebrated, and conscious living is within reach. Every choice we make, from sourcing local produce to reducing waste, reflects our ongoing commitment to a healthier, more connected Central Coast.
Join us in celebrating 40 years of good food and great community! Stop by your local New Leaf to enjoy special anniversary deals and discover all the ways we’re saying thanks to the community that made it possible.
Serving the Heart of Santa Cruz Since 1985
At New Leaf Community Markets, giving back has been at the heart of what we do for 40 years. We proudly partner with local nonprofits that strengthen, nourish, and uplift our neighbors. From fighting hunger and supporting seniors to battling local food insecurity and enriching education, our roots in the community run deep. We’re honored to support organizations making a lasting impact in Santa Cruz and beyond, including: Homeless Garden Project Senior Coastsiders Maverick’s Community Foundation Second Harvest Food Bank of Santa Cruz County Friends of the Santa Cruz Public Libraries Martha’s Kitchen Together, we’re cultivating a stronger, more connected community—one that thrives when we all grow together.
Rooted in Community, Growing with Care
From the very beginning, New Leaf Community Markets has believed that the best food starts with strong relationships. Our partnerships with local farmers and growers aren’t just about sourcing produce—they’re about supporting the people who make our region thrive. For decades, we’ve worked hand in hand with trusted partners like Pinnacle, Lakeside Organic Gardens, Swanton Berry Farm, and New Natives, who share our commitment to organic farming, sustainability, and care for the land. At New Leaf, we see our vendors as true partners. We value long-term relationships built on trust, flexibility, and mutual respect—because when our farmers flourish, our whole community does too.
GROWING GOOD TOGETHER
Since 1993, our Envirotoken program—originally inspired by a customer’s shared idea—has empowered our community to make a meaningful difference. With the simple act of reusing a grocery bag, customers receive a 10¢ token to donate to a local non-profit of their choice. Each month, we tally the tokens, convert them into dollar amounts, and send checks to organizations doing incredible work across the Central Coast. It’s a powerful reminder that when we listen to our community, great things happen.
Community Care Powered By Envirotokens Since 1993
Turning Small Actions into Big Impact
Every Envirotoken counts. Together, we’re turning small choices into meaningful results for our community and planet. Since 1993, our shoppers have donated over $1.3 million to local causes and reused more than 15 million bags, helping create lasting, positive change.