Home Gardener Program

What is the Home Gardener Program?

We’re building a network of home gardens across Mitchell County to increase access to fresh food, encourage sharing, and strengthen local resilience. Whether you’re brand new to gardening or ready to grow a little more each season, we’re here to help with simple steps and steady support.

The Home Gardener Program helps Mitchell County residents start (or expand) a home garden with a raised bed kit, soil, seasonal plant starts, seeds, and ongoing support. Kits are free to participants, thanks to generous donors and partners.

This program was initiated with support from the Community Foundation of Western North Carolina in response to community recovery needs after Hurricane Helene.

Who Should Apply

Everyone with the desire to grow!
We welcome first-time gardeners and those with some experience who want to expand their skills or space.

We will prioritize low-income households, families with children, and seniors who want to grow their own food but may face barriers to getting started.

  • Individuals and families of all experience levels

  • Schools, churches, nonprofits, and community groups

  • Households across Mitchell County

Kits are provided at no cost. If you have the means and would like to donate to help another household receive a kit, we’re grateful.

Participant Requirements

The Home Gardener Program is designed to be hands-on and community-centered. To participate, all accepted gardeners agree to the following:

  • Maintain your home garden bed and use organic growing practices to the best of your ability.

  • Document your garden installation and share photos with us via email or social media.

  • Volunteer at least 4 days in the Mitchell Giving Gardens at Riverside Park during the growing season.

  • Attend a minimum of 2 educational events or workshops hosted by MGG.

  • Share your abundance whenever possible — with friends, neighbors, or a local food pantry.

These requirements help keep the program sustainable and strengthen our shared goal of growing food and connection throughout Mitchell County.

Support the Program

Your gift puts soil, plants, and a raised bed into a neighbor’s backyard.

  • $50 provides starter plants for one family

  • $150 fills a bed with healthy compost and soil

  • $300 sponsors a complete home garden kit

Donate Now
A young girl with curly hair and a gray shirt is kneeling in a garden bed with dark soil, holding a small potted plant. She is smiling and wearing gardening gloves. The garden bed is bordered by metal edging, and there are plants and greenery in the background.