A new community initiative has emerged in Pottstown as the First Presbyterian Church and Trellis for Tomorrow have partnered to establish the Grateful Harvest Community Garden. This initiative, located at 750 N. Evans Street, aims to provide fresh produce, educational opportunities, and community engagement for local residents. The project has secured funding through the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA), highlighting its significance for food production and community involvement.
The garden is designed with both sustainability and accessibility in mind. It features 15 rentable beds, including several specifically designed for accessible use. The garden is equipped with drip irrigation and deer fencing, ensuring a productive growing environment. There are also dedicated areas intended for growing nutrient-dense food that will be donated to those in need.
Starting in 2026, local residents will have the opportunity to rent garden plots for personal use, supported by Trellis’ Food for All program. In the interim, volunteer-led harvests will supply fresh produce to various food access programs throughout the borough, addressing immediate community needs.
“The Grateful Harvest Community Garden is an extension of our faith in action,” stated Susan Moyer, Mission Committee Chair at First Presbyterian Church. “It reflects our values of service, stewardship, and neighborliness. We’re proud to see this dream growing into reality.”
Trellis for Tomorrow, a nonprofit established in 2003, will play a vital role in supporting the garden by providing seedlings, tools, and educational resources for volunteers and community members. The organization aims to utilize the garden as a space for skill-building and promoting deeper engagement with local food systems.
The grand opening celebration of the new community garden took place on October 26, 2023. The event included garden tours, refreshments, and presentations from local speakers. Community members were informed about the opportunities to rent garden beds and volunteer for the upcoming 2026 season.
Working towards food security and sustainability is not merely about feeding people; it encompasses respect, collaboration, and the cultivation of resilience within the community. Jennifer Anderson, Executive Director of Trellis for Tomorrow, emphasized this point, stating, “This partnership with First Presbyterian represents a shared vision to empower people by growing food, all together in community.”
The collaboration between First Presbyterian Church and Trellis for Tomorrow exemplifies a commitment to addressing food insecurity and fostering community spirit. Individuals interested in learning more or getting involved can visit the websites of Trellis for Tomorrow and First Presbyterian Church.
