“The Million Gardens project has truly been a blessing to my family and I. I get joy when I can step out of my house into my backyard to plant, harvest, and eat the wonderful vegetables that are growing in my garden bed.” – Sherry Walker Family
During the COVID-19 pandemic, leaders at the San Antonio AME Church recognized a need for connection and healing within their community. Their outdoor space became a central hub where community members could connect, learn about nutrition, and support one another.
“Food is medicine.” says San Antonio AME Church leader, Elder Raymond Bryant. In partnership with the AME Church and OXO, we delivered gardens straight to the backyards of hundreds of homes, to help families grow their own produce.
The gardens inspired hundreds, connecting families to each other and to their food system.
“I wanted to teach my grandkids the value of growing your own fresh fruits and vegetables. I want them to learn and to pass it onto the next generation,” – Ms. Rosa Guia.
For Nora Gonzales and her family, gardening became a journey of discovery and empowerment.
“It was an incredible feeling, to not only have food for ourselves, but to be able to share with friends and family so they could enjoy as well. Along this journey, we have learned that there is no better feeling than learning how to do something you thought you couldn’t do.”
Over time, these gardens became more than just places to grow food. They sparked conversations about health and nutrition, and participants began sharing tips, photos, and encouragement through an online gardening group. This sense of community has made the project even more impactful.
In spring 2024, during Big Green’s “Grow Together” bus tour, the AME church in San Antonio hosted a cookoff that brought gardening full circle. Members used produce from their gardens to create mouthwatering recipes, showcasing the flavors and creativity that gardening inspires.
The event was a hit—a celebration of community, health, and culinary talent. Attendees enjoyed delicious dishes while exchanging gardening tips and stories.
The San Antonio Million Gardens Project has thrived thanks to the dedication of the local leaders at the AME Church and support from our funding partner OXO. These partnerships have helped bring gardens — and hope — to more families across the community.
