Resources for Homeowners Associations to Advance Sustainable Practices — Community Gardens
Definition
Adding a community garden to a shared open area is a fantastic way to not only connect with your neighbors, but to grow local, healthy food. Community gardens can help combat food insecurity, attract pollinators, boost the local economy, and much more! In addition to typical community gardens, open space within HOA developments can be leased to farmers, who can grow food and other products for the local community — potentially even a CSA for the residents of the HOA.
Grants and Funding
The Pennsylvania Heartland Herb Society provides funding for non-profits to establish community gardens in multiple PA counties including Chester.
Partner Organizations
- Soil Science Society of America
- Pennsylvania Horticulture Society supports community gardens in Philadelphia and offers a wide variety of resources. Reach out to find local support or ideas.
- Chester County Food Bank has opportunities to form a partner garden. The Food Bank helps with supplies and setup in return for the donation of excess produce.
- Penn State Extension/Master Gardeners' Garden Hotline can help identify plants/insects and answer most any horticulture related question.
- Trellis for Tomorrow's Food For All program helps groups establish community gardens in exchange for a commitment to donate at least half its produce to those in need.
Education and Resources
- Creating a community garden
- Soil Science Society of America provides basic information on getting started with community gardening.
- Master Gardener's Garden Hotline can help identify plants/insects and answer most any horticulture related question.