Bureau of Exceptional Children/Jericho

At A Glance

Location: 

Holyoke, Massachusetts

Primary Issue Area:

  • Living Economies

Active since:

1990

Our Purpose

Our purpose is to...The Jericho Community Garden & Farmstand is being created to bring people together through shared purpose, inclusion, and access to healthy, meaningful activities. Our goal is to build a welcoming space where individuals of all abilities—especially children and adults with disabilities—can participate in gardening, connect with others, and experience the joy of growing their own food and flowers.We recognized a need in our community for more inclusive, hands-on opportunities that promote independence, confidence, and social connection. Gardening offers therapeutic benefits, skill-building, and a sense of accomplishment, yet it is not always accessible to everyone. By offering raised garden beds, ground plots, and volunteer support, we aim to remove barriers and create opportunities for participation.In addition, the garden will foster community engagement by encouraging collaboration, volunteerism, and shared resources, including a small farmstand for surplus produce. Ultimately, our goal is to cultivate not only gardens, but also a stronger, more connected, and inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to grow and belong.