Growing Together: How Community Gardens Transform Affordable Housing Communities

Community gardens are more than just green spaces — they're catalysts for building stronger, healthier neighborhoods.

At People First, we understand that affordable housing programs should encourage community spirit, which is why we proudly sponsor three community gardens across our residences.

Our community gardening initiative includes two thriving gardens at Adrean Terrace and one at the Gilmore Village development. In partnership with local and regional organizations, our community garden program offers our residents:

• Access to fresh fruits and vegetables
• Education on sustainable gardening practices
• Insight into careers in sustainable agriculture and urban farming
• Connection with neighbors in meaningful ways

The community gardens complement People First's commitment to creating community development opportunities that go beyond just providing a residence. For example, we started the first Youth Garden-To-Table Initiative, an innovative, collaborative youth employment project that provides hands-on job training and entrepreneurial experience in operating community gardens at public housing sites.

Our other resident services include computer centers, youth programs, and other job training initiatives. All of these resources provide opportunities for community members to develop life skills and build upon a foundation for lasting community engagement.