By Andrea Macias
Nestled along the scenic Mission Trail in Socorro, Texas, BODEGA LOYA is more than just a charming farm store—it is a testament to a legacy of family farming and a destination for nourishment in the local community.
Originally a cotton farm, Marty Loya grew up on the very land where BODEGA LOYA now stands. She spent her childhood outside climbing hay bales and riding her bike to neighbors’ homes, delivering fresh cheese and butter. Marty recounts her home being like an Ole McDonald farm, a large space where children and animals roamed freely.
Years later, BODEGA LOYA holds a special place in Marty’s heart, having been in her family for over a century. “I’ve been a resident of Socorro all my life, my roots are here, carrying on my family’s tradition means the world to me,” says Marty.
Her husband, Ralph Loya, shares this sentiment also having lived in Socorro, and growing white corn that’s been passed down generation to generation in his family. Now, after a couple years maturing the soil and with support of El Paso County’s Healthy Food Financing Initiative (HFFI) grant program, BODEGA LOYA opened its door in 2021.
Marty and Ralph have since transformed the original land, adobe shed and tool room into a vibrant farm store, breathing new life into the historic property. The farm is renowned for its commitment to organic farming practices. Every fruit and vegetable sold at the bodega is grown on the farmland located just behind the store.
Open every Friday, Saturday and Sunday, the farm offers seasonal produce such as melons and watermelons, okra, tomatoes, figs, cucumbers, flowers and many more items. The Loya’s dedication to providing fresh, healthy food extends beyond their bodega. They source fresh eggs from local farmers and daily made butter and cheese from Licon Dairy.
“We invite anyone to stop by the farm and grab their produce,” says Marty. “Customers can pay via cash or card, and we accept the SNAP card as well, providing a 50 percent discount that many are unaware of.”
Furthermore, their commitment to fresh food access for the community is exemplified as they partner with organizations like Desert Spoon Food Hub and La Semilla Food Center to supply fresh, organic produce to even more families through their grocery delivery subscriptions. They even donate to the El Pasoans Fighting Hunger Food Bank and El Paso Zoo helping to feed the animals.
“We believe in contributing to the healthy food initiative in their community which is slowly becoming a rare commodity,” says Marty.
Marty and Ralph also travel to nearby communities in what they call their Mobile Bodega Loya, visiting communities such as those in Tornillo, Fabens, and Dell City offering access to those that may not have it.
“We are traveling as often as we are able, because there is such a need for fresh produce for people and families,” says Marty. “Our goal is to share our offerings and our space. That is what is most important to me, my family, and our legacy.”
But BODEGA LOYA is more than just a place to buy fresh produce. It is a hub for the community. The property hosts Cafecito, a cozy coffee shop where local artists showcase and sell their work. Visitors can stop by to enjoy fresh tea and coffee; pastries made from ingredients the farm and shop local artists designs and merchandise. The land also offers available rental space for other businesses as well as gathering space for special events, farmers, and holiday markets.
In a world where fresh, healthy food is becoming a rare commodity, BODEGA LOYA stands as a shining example of what community-focused, sustainable farming can achieve. Learn more about BODEGA LOYA by visiting gwsfarm.com.
