By Andi Anderson
A growing partnership among community organizations in West Michigan is helping increase access to fresh produce, gardening education, and community engagement through the development of local community gardens.
What began as a conversation about creating a single garden has evolved into a regional effort focused on improving food access and strengthening neighborhoods.
The initiative started in 2025 when Feeding America West Michigan met with H.O.P.E Gardens to discuss the possibility of establishing a community garden in Kentwood.
As planning continued, additional organizations joined the effort, including the Kent District Library in Kentwood, Michigan State University Extension's Kent County 4-H program, and the Refugee Education Center. Together, these partners explored ways to create a sustainable community resource that would benefit local residents.
The collaboration soon identified funding opportunities and secured a location for the Woodfield Community Garden. Support from Woodfield Apartments owner Dan Hibma, Land & Co., and the Michigan Fitness Foundation helped make the project possible.
In November 2025, community members and partner organizations gathered to prepare the site and establish the garden.
The success of the Woodfield Community Garden inspired broader discussions about creating additional gardens throughout the region. These efforts eventually led to the formation of the West Michigan Community Garden Coalition, a network dedicated to supporting existing gardens and identifying opportunities for new community growing spaces.
One of the coalition's ongoing projects includes support for the Family Network of Wyoming Garden, a community garden originally established in 2024 with assistance from H.O.P.E Gardens and students from Anchor Point Christian. The garden continues to serve as an important source of fresh produce for local families.
In September 2026, representatives from H.O.P.E Gardens, Kent County 4-H, and Feeding America West Michigan worked together to harvest produce from the Family Network of Wyoming Garden. The team collected 68 pounds of fresh fruits and vegetables, most of which was donated directly to the Family Network of Wyoming food pantry to support families in need.
The impact of these gardens extends beyond food production. During the harvest, local residents stopped by and were able to take fresh produce home, including watermelon, tomatoes, zucchini, cucumbers, and peppers. These interactions demonstrated the value of community gardens as welcoming spaces where neighbors can connect while benefiting from locally grown food.
The coalition continues to show how organizations can achieve meaningful results by combining resources, expertise, and shared goals. Under the coordination of Christie Koester of H.O.P.E Gardens, the group continues to explore new opportunities for expanding community gardens throughout West Michigan.
Looking ahead, Kent County 4-H plans to increase its involvement by offering gardening and nutrition education programs while encouraging youth participation in garden projects. Volunteers and young people will also have opportunities to assist with community garden maintenance and support future initiatives.
The West Michigan Community Garden Coalition highlights the power of collaboration in addressing community needs. By creating spaces for growing food, promoting education, and building stronger neighborhood connections, the coalition is helping improve local food access and community well-being across the region.
Photo Credit: gettyimages-zbynek-pospisil
Categories: Michigan, Rural Lifestyle