What is a giving garden?
Giving gardens have been popping up all over the country as people begin growing more of their own food and simultaneously becoming more aware of the prevalence of food insecurity within their own communities.
Giving Gardens vs. Community Gardens: What's the Difference?
Giving Gardens are enchanting spaces specifically planted to share the bounty with those in need. They sprout with a purpose, offering fresh produce to food banks, shelters, and families facing food insecurity. These gardens thrive on the spirit of generosity, where every tomato and zucchini has a story of kindness behind it.
On the other hand, Community Gardens are whimsical patches of communal joy. These vibrant plots bring neighbors together, allowing them to cultivate their own crops while fostering friendships and connections. In a community garden, each individual or family gets their own designated space to plant, grow, and harvest, creating a colorful tapestry of diverse plants, ideas, and smiles.
While both types of gardens share the beauty of growing food, one blooms with the spirit of giving, and the other flourishes in togetherness. Whether you’re planting seeds of kindness or cultivating community connections, the magic of gardens is undeniable! 🌱✨
It all starts with an idea…
I knew from the beginning that I wanted my farm to be one of purpose and community. Good, nutritious food is not accessible to so many for a variety of reasons and I want my farm to be a part of making it more accessible to as many folks as I can. When I was thinking about how I could *start* my farm with that intention, the Giving Garden project was born. I currently have a full-time job that pays our bills, so I do not need to put all of my efforts into the market side of the farm right away. Instead, I plan on focusing heavily on the giving garden this first year, with market sales being a bonus. If I could, I would grow food and give it away forever, but I do eventually want to leave my full-time job and farm full-time instead. My plan is for the sales from what I grow outside of the giving garden, and/or possibly donations from folks who believe in my vision, to support both my income and what is needed for the giving garden.
So, what is my vision for the garden itself? Allow me to paint the scene.
Imagine a vibrant garden filled with berry bushes inviting visitors to pick juicy fruits. Flower gardens attract pollinators, while the aroma of fresh herbs fills the air. Abundant vegetables are scattered throughout, ready to be harvested and shared. Cozy seating areas encourage community gathering and storytelling, while a charming play area delights children. The Giving Garden serves as a communal space where local gardeners share their bountiful excess, with a fridge on site to keep the treasures fresh. Seasonal gatherings, like outdoor dinner parties and pumpkin carving events, add to the garden's charm and community spirit.
The response so far…
When we share the plans for the Giving Garden with members of the community, the response is overwhelmingly positive. It is clear that our neighbors believe in the purpose and need for this project. People are recognizing the value of projects like this one, focused on mutual aid and sharing food as a gift, instead of a commodity.