Here are a number of the benefits of community gardens:

• Beautifying Cities.  Community gardening turns vacant land into vibrant green space, which improves the quality of life for everyone in the neighborhood – not just the people who actually tend the garden. There’s even some evidence that having a community garden increases property values in the surrounding area.

• Fresh Produce. Many small neighborhoods are “food deserts” – places where it’s nearly impossible to buy fresh fruits and vegetables. Community gardens provide fresh, nutritious produce for many families who couldn’t otherwise afford it, improving their diet and their overall health. They also relieve hunger by donating their excess produce to food pantries.

• Healthy Lifestyles. Community gardening gives local residents a chance to enjoy fresh air and healthy outdoor exercise. They also provide a peaceful retreat from daily demands and busy lifestyles. 

• A Cleaner Environment. The plants in a community garden add oxygen to the air and help reduce air pollution. They also absorb rainwater, reducing the amount of runoff that runs through the streets and carries pollutants into rivers and lakes. Many community gardens also take part in composting, recycling plant waste such as leaves and tree trimmings into useful fertilizer.

• Stronger Communities. Sharing a community garden gives people a chance to connect with their neighbors. Gardeners also feel more personally invested in the places where they live, gaining sense of ownership and community spirit. Because local residents have the opportunity to leave their homes and where they can keep an eye on the street, community gardens can help reduce crime in the surrounding neighborhood.

• Educational Opportunities. Working in a community garden is a good way for kids and adults to learn about where food comes from and gain a basic introduction to environmental issues, work skills, and business principles. Community gardens give people a chance to meet and learn about neighbors who come from different backgrounds, including people of different ages, races, cultures, and social classes.