New Grant Supports Garden Expansion

By Blake Jackson

A major milestone has been reached for the Sovereign Gardens Initiative as it receives a fifty thousand dollar grant through the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets 2025 Urban Farms and Community Gardens Program. This new funding supports Pitney Meadows as it continues to grow community-based food systems through the 2026 season. The goal is simple but powerful: help more people grow their own food where they live, work and gather.

The initiative focuses on strengthening food access in Saratoga County, where many households face challenges in finding affordable, healthy options. Some families do not qualify for assistance programs yet still experience food insecurity. The program responds by supporting organizations such as housing complexes, veteran service groups, health centers and neighborhood spaces, offering them the tools to grow food on site.

Through the Sovereign Gardens Initiative, support includes compost, seeds, raised beds, irrigation systems, and hands-on guidance. These gardens belong to the participating organizations and are cared for by staff, volunteers, and clients. As they plant, water and harvest together, they build connections and a sense of shared purpose.

The new grant will allow the number of partner gardens to grow from nine to more than thirteen, with priority areas including BIPOC, disabled, veteran and low-income communities. Each site receives funding and technical help to build or improve its garden. Seasonal planning, planting advice, and production strategies are provided along with infrastructure such as soil improvements, irrigation upgrades, and tools to extend the growing season.

Sustainability remains central to the initiative. Gardens continue thriving after their first year because Pitney Meadows supports partners with compost, plant starts and ongoing technical assistance.

Many locations have already expanded their gardens or encouraged new projects nearby. Support from the state strengthens not just garden structures but also the sense of belonging that comes from growing food together.

As organizers noted, the grant reflects strong recognition of community-grown food systems and their positive impact. With continued growth expected in 2026, the initiative will keep building healthy gardens, stronger communities, and more accessible food options.

Photo Credit: pexels-karolina-grabowska