The Home Gardener Program was initiated by and funded with the generous help of The Community Foundation of Western North Carolina as a response to rebuilding after Hurricane Helene.

Mitchell Giving Gardens is committed to creating a larger network of home gardens to increase access to fresh food, encourage sharing, and build resilience in our local food system. And this program helps us do just that!

By applying for the Home Gardener Program, you are contributing to the health of you, your family & friends, as well as the environment.

EVERYONE who is interested should apply!

We aim to support anyone who has an interest in starting or expanding a home garden no matter your experience or financial position.

Whether you have never gardened before or you have a garden started but dream of expanding little by little, this program is designed to support you on your gardening journey.

Churches, groups, nonprofits, and schools are also encouraged to apply and participate!

The kits supplied by the program are free to all applicants ($500+ value).

If you want to participate in the program and feel that you have the means to make a donation to help supplement other families to receive, we’re grateful!

Why NOT?!! The process is simple and easy!

Having a garden is more than just tending the earth. It’s about learning, community resiliency, and sharing with family, friends and neighbors.

Home grown food is the freshest available and you’re bound to taste the difference!

It’s also economical. Save on your grocery bill! A packet of seeds is less than $5 and with that, you can grow exponentially more.

It’s easy! Fill out a form, providing basic information so we can get in touch with you about further program specifics and BAM! You’re that much closer to getting a raised garden bed!

We will follow-up with more details and information within a week of receiving applications.

There is nothing more required from you after applying to participate in the Home Gardener Program.

However, once you’ve received your raised bed kit, we strongly encourage you to:

• Maintain your home garden bed and use organic growing practices to the best of your ability

• Document the installation of your raised bed garden at your home and send us pictures via email or social media. This helps us to be able to fund more projects like this in the future!
  (tag us on Facebook @mitchellgivinggardens or on Instagram @mitchell_giving_gardens)

• Attend 4 volunteer days at Mitchell Giving Gardens in Riverside Park

• Attend 2 educational events with Mitchell Giving Gardens

And most importantly…

• Share the abundance with neighbors, friends, or a local food pantry