Summary
Evaluation findings demonstrated that the Community Gardens program was
valued by clients for more than just the material deliverables and meanings
gained from activities. Many gardeners found social and psychosocial
benefits through participation in the program. Some clients described how
the gardens had become social hubs in their neighborhoods, drawing the
support of formal and informal groups. other clients discussed the ways
they used gardening to promote social justice-particularly by donating food
to help alleviate hunger And some clients described how these activities
had given them a sense of self-sufficiency and personal value.
While the past several chapters have highlighted the strengths of the Community
Gardens program, evaluation data also suggested some challenges. Chapter
Seven will summarize these findings.