During a recent community meeting, the manager of Community Action's community garden program shared insights into the organization's efforts to promote local food production and community engagement through gardening. Established in 1967, Community Action operates as a food bank and provides various support services aimed at fostering self-reliance among individuals and families.

The manager, a graduate of the US Extension Master Gardener program, highlighted the significant benefits of community gardening, noting that participants consume 37.5% more fruits and vegetables compared to non-gardeners. Community gardens can reduce household food insecurity by up to 90% and save gardeners between $75 to $380 annually on food costs. Additionally, 64% of community gardeners participate for the social benefits and sense of community.

Currently, Community Action manages five gardens, four located in Provo and one newly opened in Spanish Fork. The Spanish Fork garden features 120 individual plots and eight communal plots, where families collaborate on planting and harvesting. The manager emphasized the importance of community involvement, stating that successful gardens require active participation from local businesses and residents.

To establish a community garden, the manager outlined several key steps: selecting a site, forming a planning committee, conducting outreach and fundraising, building garden boxes, organizing the garden, and finally, opening it to the public. The Spanish Fork garden, for instance, was developed over a year, involving extensive volunteer efforts and fundraising to cover costs, which totaled just under $15,000.

The city of Spanish Fork has supported the initiative by donating water and land, while a nominal $20 rental fee for plots helps maintain the gardens. This fee is waived for low-income participants, ensuring accessibility for all community members. The manager noted that the demand for plots has surged, with the current year marking the first time they had to turn away interested gardeners due to full capacity.

Community Action's approach to promoting the gardens includes utilizing social media, local city pages, and flyers to reach potential volunteers and participants. The manager encouraged community members to engage with the gardens, not only for personal benefit but also to contribute surplus produce to local food banks, reinforcing the program's commitment to addressing food insecurity in the area.