Seattle is home to 78 P-Patch community gardens (and counting)! In these gardens, people grow extra rows of food and donate the harvest to local food banks, shelters and other organizations that help feed people in need. Those extra rows really add up. In 2010 alone, P-Patches donated nearly 21,000 pounds (over 41,000 servings) of fresh, organic produce!

The food doesn’t grow itself. The dedicated P-Patch gardeners who run these Giving Gardens rely on volunteers who help plant, mulch, weed, water, harvest and deliver the produce they grow. It’s a happy collaboration that teaches valuable skills, creates lasting friendships and builds strong communities.

How you can help. It’s easy to get involved. Just contact your local P-Patch and show up on the assigned day dressed for gardening. Most gardens have the tools and equipment you’ll need, but it doesn’t hurt to check. Some P-Patches have long-established, regular Giving Garden work parties. Others might need only occasional help. FIND A P-PATCH NEAR YOU.