The Holden Community Garden (HCG) is a volunteer organization that makes gardening available to all residents of our town, regardless of income. Our efforts enable residents to enjoy gardening while developing a sense of community through cooperative action, learning about sustainable and environmentally conscious gardening and ethical land-use. The HCG supports community gardens in local schools. These gardens help develop appreciation for the importance of agriculture and responsible environmental practices, as well as positive experiences through gardening and physical activity. We now offer 11 10- by 18-foot garden plots and two raised garden beds; plots are made available at the start of each year’s growing season. Gardeners pay $25 to lease a plot and agree to organic gardening practices. There is a waiting list for our plots. We have sufficient space, and approval from our Town, to expand in Spring 2023, adding 12 new plots and 5 raised beds.In 2000, 21% of Holden residents were 65 or older. The HCG works cooperatively with our town's Council on Aging and Senior Center in planning gardening opportunities. Many residents, due to age or disability, can’t comfortably garden at ground level. That is why we’re adding raised beds.We’re requesting one-time funding to install a drip irrigation system for all our garden plots. This will allow us to effectively water our garden and grounds in an ecological and effective manner