Gardens for Charlestown

At A Glance

Location: 

Charlestown, Massachusetts

Primary Issue Area:

  • Food

Active since:

1976

Grants Received In:

  • 2009

Core volunteers:

6

Community Size:

16,216

Our Purpose

to promote gardening and community pride, and to encourage beautification of Charlestown Gardens for Charlestown (GFC) was formed by a committed group of Charlestown residents in 1976, and this community incorporated four years later as a charitable 501(c) 3 non-profit In 1995 in recognition of the group's leadership and commitment to urban gardening and green space, the city transferred ownership and deeded the urban land to GFC. The purpose of the GFC is educational and charitable, focusing on improving the lives of people in Charlestown and strengthening community, creating green space, urban gardening, and providing a community horticulture resource for the enjoyment and education of the Charlestown community. Income for the Gardens for Charlestown comes from the annual dues of the Community Garden members, individual community donations, special fundraising events throughout the year, and supporting relationships with local businesses and other non-profits.

Summary of Projects

Gardens for Charlestown received a grant in 2009 to replace old wooden benches at the community garden. The garden is used not only by members, but by the community-at-large, both for relaxation and special events and the benches are nearly in constant use.