Our History

Before Urban Patchwork became the organization that it is today,  we were just a handful of go-getter types who were prepared to dig into any garden project that called for our help. The story of how this organization became is not neat and linear, but a process of pieces coming together around efforts to grow food.

​

A few urban gardeners met some young and beginner urban farmers who were working hard but needed help with their garden infrastructure and making connections to resources. Together, they began to connect and build a sustainable, relationship-based, local food infrastructure. Farmers loaned and repaired equipment, pitched in on labor, shared shop space, provided garden space, gave informal training and advice, introduced them to trusted local service providers, and helped distribute fresh food to neighbors, pantries, and markets. As the beginners grew food, knowledge, and experience, they became teachers, and they continue the cycle of learning, sharing, and connecting. 
 

Urban Patchwork is a citizen and community-led initiative in response to the challenges that limit urban gardeners from growing, sharing, and connecting around local food. Over the last 10 years, we have built lasting relationships with over 100 gardeners in dozens of backyard gardens, community and school gardens, and urban farms.