Champaign-Urbana has some of the most productive growing soil in the United States, but a very high food insecurity rate. Many residents don’t know where their next meal is coming from or depend on food subsidies that only provide them with $6.40 a day to feed themselves. And unemployment, illness, and loss of housing as a result of the COVID-19 crisis has only made these factors worse.

Solidarity Gardens supports gardeners that grow food at home or in community gardens to grow a little extra and share it with those most in need in our community. We leverage the giving spirit of countless Champaign-Urbana residents - longtime garden pros with expertise to share as well as new gardeners who are interested in learning to plant, tend, and harvest gardens all across town - and help to get local gardeners’ produce into the hands of folks in need through our partnerships with local food banks, advocacy groups, and neighborhoods.

We believe that collaborative gardening can help feed our neighbors, teach useful food production skills, and build community.