Springfield Community Gardens (SCG) first took root when a small group of
residents, university students, and professionals joined together with the idea
of forming a neighborhood garden in the Grant Beach Neighborhood. After just a
few months, the Springfield Community Gardens are already making a difference
for the families who work with them. Springfield Community Gardens is just
that—a community. Tending the garden alongside one another fosters involvement
and growth for the neighborhood as a whole, so it's only natural these gardens
are growing strong around town. It's wonderful to see so many others joining
the community, and help plan or maintain as many neighborhood
gardens as it takes to wipe out hunger in Springfield. They hope to spread
roots all over The Ozarks.
Construction of the Grant Beach Community Garden began in 2010 with the
assistance of the Springfield-Greene County Parks Department and the City of
Springfield’s Neighborhoods and Planning Office. Since then, they have grown
steadily. In 2014, with Ozarks Food Harvest, they distributed over 40,000
pounds of produce to families in need, and volunteers logged more than 1500
hours in SCG gardens. Dedicated volunteers ensure that
Springfield Community Gardens will continue to enrich the community.
The Springfield Community Gardens has nurtured partnerships
with some incredibly generous organizations that share our dedication to
improving local neighborhoods. They and their partners understand that helping
people grow their own healthy food fosters better eating habits, reduces budget
strains, and builds life skills and community pride. Learn more about
how you can be involved at the Springfield Community Gardens website.
Listen to the interview.
Listen to the interview.
