An Oasis In Heart Of The City
FARM CITY
DETROIT
BUILDING AN
URBAN OASIS
Founded in 2008, Farm City Detroit is a cornerstone for urban renewal and sustainable farming in Old Redford, Detroit. This volunteer-led project has revitalized vacant lots into flourishing gardens, emphasizing community, education, and healthy food access. It exemplifies sustainable urban development, offering educational programs and fostering environmental stewardship, making it a pivotal model for cities everywhere.
OUR STORY
In 2018, Detroit Blight Busters and MSU Master Gardener volunteers initiated the revival of an abandoned garden in Artist Village Detroit, laying the groundwork for what would become Farm City Detroit. By 2019, the project expanded, transforming 37 raised beds into a flourishing urban farm. This initiative not only provided the community with access to fresh, organic produce but also fostered a strong sense of unity and engagement through social and recreational activities.
As the project evolved from 2020, despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Farm City Detroit continued to grow, adding more raised beds and creating a pollinators garden to enhance biodiversity. With the future establishment of an orchard, the project steadfastly focuses on sustainable urban farming, community health, and environmental stewardship, illustrating an unwavering commitment to enriching the community and promoting sustainable living.
OUR ACHIEVEMENTS
Through hard work and dedication, we have achieved remarkable outcomes that have positively impacted the community:
Improved Neighborhood: Farm City Detroit has brought life back to an otherwise neglected neighborhood. The once dangerous and abandoned spaces have now become safe and vibrant places for the community to enjoy.
Youth Development: We take pride in providing opportunities for the youth in our neighborhood. To date, we have empowered them with skills and experiences that will benefit them throughout their lives.
Community Engagement: Farm City Detroit has become a rallying point for the community. With over 400 annual volunteers actively participating, we have seen the power of collective effort in bringing about positive change.
Sustainable Practices: Our hand demolition process salvaged much of the properties for recycling, contributing to a more environmentally sustainable approach to revitalization.
Inter-Generational Mentorships: We believe in the power of inter-generational connections. MSU Master Gardeners are mentoring and sharing their knowledge with the community, creating a sense of belonging and purpose, that the community can replicate themselves.
Harvest and Abundance: The community has reaped the rewards of their labor through bountiful harvests of fresh vegetables and produce, fostering a sense of pride and self-sufficiency.
HOW YOU CAN HELP
As we move forward with Farm City Detroit, we still have a vision to fulfill - turning this project into an urban oasis where people from all walks of life can come together, celebrate their community, and enjoy a harmonious environment. Your contribution, big or small, can make a significant difference in completing Farm City Detroit and bringing this vision to life.
Spread the
Word:
Share our mission with your friends, family, and social networks. The more people know about Farm City Detroit, the more support we can garner to create a lasting impact on the community.
Make a
Donation:
Every dollar counts and can go a long way in helping us reach our goals. Your donations will directly contribute to the development and sustainability of Farm City Detroit.
Volunteer Opportunities:
Join us every Saturday from 9 AM, March to November, at 21722 Orchard St, Detroit, MI 48219. No sign-up needed, and gardening experience isn't required.
