In the heart of St. Roch, a vibrant and historic neighborhood in New Orleans, lies a hidden gem that is not only feeding the community but also nurturing its spirit. Galvez Garden, a community garden located on Galvez Street, has recently been honored as the Community Resources Connection, Inc. 2023 Garden of the Year, recognizing its outstanding contributions to the local community.
Founded in 2021, Galvez Garden was established with the vision of creating a safe green space where residents could come together to grow fresh, healthy food and build community connections. Over the years, the garden has evolved into a thriving hub of activity, attracting residents of all ages and backgrounds who share a passion for gardening and community building. The Galvez Garden is a recognized USDA People’s Garden, Louisiana Master Gardener and LSUAg project site, and partnered with Compost NOW in efforts to create a more sustainable New Orleans.
One of the key features of Galvez Garden is its focus on sustainability and organic gardening practices. The garden utilizes composting, rainwater harvesting, and other eco-friendly techniques to minimize its environmental impact and promote a healthy ecosystem. The Native Plant Initiative is one example of ways Galvez Garden promotes biodiversity on site. These practices not only benefit the garden itself but also serve as a model for sustainable living that inspires visitors to adopt similar practices in their own lives.
Garden of the Year
In addition to growing food, Galvez Garden also serves as a gathering place for the community. Throughout the year, the garden hosts a variety of events and activities, including workshops, community outreach events, and weekly compost collection, in which the garden has diverted over 10,000 pounds of food waste from our landfills.
These events not only educate residents about gardening and healthy eating but also foster a sense of belonging and connection among neighbors. The site includes paintings and sculpture from southern-based artists and incorporates experimental planting techniques to engage visitors.
The impact of Galvez Garden extends beyond its physical boundaries, reaching into the lives of those who benefit from its plants and gather in its shade. For many residents, the garden is a place of solace and healing, offering a respite from the stresses of daily life and a chance to reconnect with nature and community.
Receiving the Community Resources Connection, Inc. 2023 Garden of the Year award is a testament to the hard work and dedication of the volunteers and organizers who have made Galvez Garden a success. Their commitment to creating a welcoming and inclusive space where everyone is welcome has helped Galvez Garden become not just a garden, but a beloved community institution.
As Galvez Garden continues to grow and flourish, it serves as a reminder of the power of community gardens to not only nourish the body but also feed the soul. It is a shining example of how a small plot of land can become a beacon of hope and inspiration for an entire community.
Read about the award from CRC, Inc. here:
NOLA Artist Incubator 