At Inter-Faith Food Shuttle, we're thrilled to share the latest milestone in our partnership with the City of Raleigh Parks, Recreation, and Cultural Resources (Raleigh Parks). Building on the success of our collaboration at Barwell Road Park, we are excited to announce the next phase of the Raleigh Parks Community Gardens Program with the inaugural community garden build at Eastgate Park.
Our Gardens For Everyone (G4E) team, alongside dedicated City of Raleigh staff and enthusiastic neighbors from The Hollows community, have been working hard, turning plans into green spaces that will serve as more than just patches of soil. These gardens are envisioned as vibrant hubs where community members can come together, learn about sustainable gardening practices, and enjoy the produce of their labor.
In this initial phase of the garden build, we installed ten 4'x8'x20" raised garden boxes and two ADA-compliant garden boxes from our G4E program. This setup will provide ample growing space as well as gardening areas that are wheelchair accessible. Additionally, this phase includes the installation of a concrete walking path, a 10'x10' storage shed, a picnic table, a fence, and wood-chipped walkways around the garden boxes. This comprehensive infrastructure aims to create an inclusive, functional, and welcoming environment for all community members.
Our partnership focuses on planning and establishing five new community gardens strategically located in areas with significant need. Inter-Faith Food Shuttle is leveraging its expertise to support Raleigh Parks and Community Action Teams (CATs) in the sustainable development of these gardens on park properties. Future gardens are scheduled for Dorothea Dix Park, Sanderford Road Park, and Walnut Creek Wetland Center.
By strategically distributing these gardens at Raleigh Parks, the partnership aims to improve food security while promoting community engagement and sustainability. Community gardens serve as more than just sources of fresh, nutritious food. They also function as centers for community involvement, education, and empowerment. The Food Shuttle and Raleigh Parks intend to amplify their impact, promoting equitable access to fresh food options for individuals and families in underserved areas while nurturing a sense of community. The Food Shuttle will continue to support these community gardens by providing Agriculture Education.
This initiative represents more than just a garden; it’s a catalyst for positive change. By leveraging our collective strengths and resources, we are not only addressing food insecurity but also nurturing stronger, more resilient communities. The garden at Eastgate Park is a testament to what can be achieved when community members, organizations, and local government come together with a shared vision.
