Our Impact
Mitchell Giving Gardens cultivates more than produce — we cultivate connection, knowledge, and resilience. Our programs and partnerships make fresh, nourishing food available to our neighbors at no cost.
“Having access to fresh food in this hard hit area with so few options for access is life and health changing. I’m ever grateful for Mitchell Giving Gardens and others who take food security seriously. Thank YOU!”
Why It Matters
Food insecurity is a growing concern in our rural communities. Mitchell County residents need reliable access to fresh, nutrient-dense foods; Spruce Pine and most of Mitchell County are food deserts. Since September 2024, the only grocery store in Spruce Pine remains closed, intensifying the need for food relief.
We know from both our direct work and the 2024 Mitchell County Community Health Assessment (CHA) that:
“Food insecurity is a growing problem, with nearly a quarter of Mitchell County survey respondents in 2024 reporting that they ran out of food or worried about running out of food.”
Our gardens, Harvest Tables, and community partnerships are a direct response to these challenges—connecting people with local food, education, and resources that make healthy living possible.
Together, we can build a strong local food system that provides plenty for everyone. Donate to support our work!
Your support helps us:
Grow and distribute thousands of pounds of local produce each year.
Expand our free garden programs for households, schools, and community groups.
Invest in soil health, infrastructure, and long-term resilience.
Teach residents with hands-on education that builds skills and confidence.
When you support Mitchell Giving Gardens, you’re helping create lasting change in our community.
Transparency & Accountability
As a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit in North Carolina, Mitchell Giving Gardens is committed to transparency in every aspect of our work. Below you’ll find our annual reports, IRS Form 990s, and other financial documents that demonstrate how your support directly impacts our mission.
Financial Statements
Why transparency matters
We believe community trust grows the same way food does — through consistent care and shared effort. By keeping our financial and program data open and accessible, we honor our donors, volunteers, and partners who make this work possible.