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Unity Gardens showcases growth of food-access and education programs to county council
Summary
Unity Gardens founder Sarah Stewart told the council the group runs ~30–50 gardens countywide, expanded education programs, a GeoDome four-season growing site and urban orchards, and has attracted about $300,000 in state and federal funding for canopy and orchard projects.
Sarah Stewart, founder of Unity Gardens, presented the organization's 15-year history and recent growth to the council, describing a network of neighborhood gardens and programs that provide free, dignified access to fresh food and educational programming.
Stewart said Unity Gardens operates approximately 30–50 garden sites across the community, offers classroom-style and field education programs, operates an "Edgy Veggie" mobile classroom that reached more than 700 children in its first year, and recently launched a GeoDome four-season growing structure. She described an "accessibility inclusion" effort to make garden sites usable by people with mobility challenges and said the group has helped secure roughly $300,000 in state and federal funds for urban orchards and canopy enhancements.
Stewart framed Unity Gardens' model as a non-stigmatizing, community-centered approach to food access, calling it a "dignified free food hub" and invited council members to visit the sites. Her presentation drew applause and several council members praised the program's volunteer leadership and community impact.
