What we do
The Backyard Growers Program (BYG), in partnership with The Food Project, helps low- to moderate-income Gloucester residents build and maintain sustainable backyard vegetable gardens. We provide raised beds, compost, garden installation, seedlings, seeds, training, and mentoring.
Our goals:
- Introduce Gloucester residents to the benefits of home gardening
- Increase awareness of and access to fresh local produce
- Build community and self-sufficiency through backyard farming
- Improve environmental conditions in downtown neighborhoods
Volunteer for the Backyard Growers Program
- For 2012 volunteering and mentoring opportunities please contact Lara at 978-317-8025 or lara@beaonstreetfarm.org
Resources
- Backyard Growers Program RESOURCES & FUN PAGES!
Where you will find local resource information and step-by-step instructions on how to start your own vegetable garden.
In the News
Become a Backyard Grower
Who is eligible?
- Low- to moderate-income Gloucester residents are invited to apply to the Cape Ann Farmers’ Market Backyard Growers Program
- The program provides a raised garden bed, compost, seeds & seedlings, an interactive training, a Growing Guide, ongoing mentoring and a community of backyard growers
- Priority is given to low- to moderate-income families
- Beginner and experienced gardeners are welcome to apply
- People who already have gardens or those who are starting from scratch are welcome to apply
How do I apply?
- Right-click the PDF icon to download the application form
- Email application to lara@beaonstreetfarm.org OR mail or deliver application to 9 Beacon Street OR return application to your child’s school
- The application deadline is Friday, October 14 for a limited number of spots
How get more information?
- Contact Lara Lepionka, BYG Coordinator at 978-317-8025
or email lara@beaonstreetfarm.org
Meet some of our Backyard Growers
Click on the names below to see some of our growers
- Riverdale Park Community Youth Garden
- Beacon Street Work Day
- Amy & Jacob
- The Beauparlant Family
- Roz & Sandy
- Becky & Andrew
- Phoebe
- Regina & Phil
- Dale & Curt
- Click here to see our water barrel demonstration
- Click here to see our visit to O’Maley Middle School
Who we are
| Lara Lepionka CAFM Backyard Growers Coordinator |
Nikki Bogin CAFM Market Manager |
Melissa Dimond CAFM Co-Founder and Advisory Board Member |
Funders
- Bruce J. Anderson Foundation
- Clif Bar Family Foundation
- New England Grassroots Foundation
- Sparkplug Foundation
- TD Charitable Foundation
Partners
- Get Fit Gloucester!
- Gloucester District Schools
- Riverdale Park Resident’s Group
- The Food Project, Inc.
- The Open Door Garden Project
Sponsors & Supporters