Sustainable Food Center Promotes Food Gardening Through Program

AUSTIN, TX —As popularity for gardens grows , it's estimated 1 in 3 families enjoys some type of gardening, and in the time of coronavirus, more people are taking to the outdoors to get started. Texas offers opportunities to grow nearly year-round, and gardening can be a great activity for the entire family to enjoy.

As part of an effort to reduce financial barriers to food gardening, Sustainable Food Center's Spread the Harvest offers Central Texas residents with free gardening resources, including seeds and fertilizer (available year-round at SFC); transplants and compost (available twice per year at Resource Giveaway Days); access to SFC’s book lending library; subscription to SFC’s weekly newsletter, which contains information on upcoming gardening events, classes, volunteer opportunities, and more.

Spread the Harvest accepts applications from low-income gardeners (individuals and families earning less than 275% of the Federal Poverty Level; see chart below); School garden representatives; and community gardeners and service providers that work with and provide food to underprivileged individuals and communities.

2020 Qualifying Income Thresholds

Family Size/Annual Income

1/$35,090 or less

2/$47,410 or less

3/$59,730 or less

4/$72,050 or less

5/$84,370 or less

6/$96,690 or less

7/$109,010 or less

8/$121,330 or less

In exchange for free resources, participants agree to track the amount of food harvested and shared. In January, April, July and October, Grow Local staff survey gardeners by email or phone to inquire how their garden is growing. In order to remain in the program, participants must comply with program requirements. To learn more about SFC and Spread the Harvest, or to fill out an application, click HERE.