Collective Roots builds breathtaking school gardens—unique open spaces to bring together students and the whole commuity. They work to create access to local, sustainable produce for the families that need it the most. Collective Roots has been working in the East Palo Alto area for over 10 years now.

Support from the Ford Community Green Grant will enable the creation of multiple home gardens. Staff and volunteers from Collective Roots will help assess home sites and build gardens for families in addition to providing classes on how to grow food. East Palo Alto residents without access to a yard will be able to access community garden space provided by Collective Roots.

In addition, money from the grant will support the certification process needed for home gardeners to sell their produce at the East Palo Alto Community Farmers’ Market. Furthermore, grant money will help support the East Palo Alto Seed Lending Library where residents can access organic, heirloom vegetable seeds free of charge to further reduce barriers to growing one’s own food.