Community Garden Outreach - TUC Garden

In 2010, The University Church (TUC) relocated to 8 acres in a community with insufficient food access here in Toledo, Ohio. Community Garden Initiative¿s top priority is to utilize this land to fight poverty. Our purpose is threefold: #1 Growing Food. In these difficult economic times, many people are finding it hard to provide food for their families. Often, fresh fruits and vegetables are simply excluded because of cost and so nutrition problems can develop, especially among children. We grow organic fruits and vegetables and make these available through a variety of distribution methods to assist those in need. #2 Growing Awareness. It is estimated by the Census Bureau that a quarter of people in Toledo live at or below the federally-defined poverty level and yet many people are simply unaware of the plight of their neighbors. By becoming a public presence working to combat hunger and poverty, we help make people aware of the very troubling situation in our neighborhood. #3 Growing Compassion. Once an individual becomes involved in helping others, it is our experience that compassion grows and people are changed. We hope to grow compassion within our community.