By:  Eric Jasson Rweikiza

All Nations International Development Agency

Growing Fresh Food. Growing Stronger Communities.

Two months ago, we shared the beginning of something new at our ANIDA Food Bank. Over the past month, we have initiated the Community Garden project. A vision to expand access to fresh, nutritious food for families in our local community in our backyard!

From Vision to Groundbreaking Progress

Our partnership with Karis Disability Services continues to bring this project to life in meaningful and visible ways. What began as a shared vision for an accessible and inclusive green space is steadily transforming into a thriving garden rooted in care, collaboration, and community.

Each week reminds us that transformation does not happen all at once, but it grows step by step.

Over the past few weeks, the project has moved fully into active development. The land has been dug and carefully prepared, creating the foundation needed for long-term growth. Fresh soil has been added to enrich the space with nutrients essential for planting, and structural work around the garden has helped define and strengthen the space for future seasons.

One of the most visible milestones has been the installation of raised garden beds, marking a major step forward from preparation to planting.

Planting Has Begun

Now, we are excited to share that planting is now underway. The garden is now home to a growing variety of fruits, vegetables, and herbs, including jalapeño peppers, red bell peppers, bunching onions, squash, green and yellow zucchini, swiss chard, kale, okra, and callaloo.

What was once soil preparation and construction is now becoming something living and active. A space that will soon provide fresh food, learning opportunities, and meaningful connection.

Why This Matters

The Community Garden is about more than growing food.

For many families, access to fresh produce is not always consistent. While food banks help meet immediate needs, this garden represents a step toward longer-term food security creating sustainable access to nutritious food right within the community.

It also creates space for something deeper: participation, learning, and shared ownership. Community members will have opportunities to engage, volunteer, and contribute to a project that grows alongside them.

This is how lasting change takes root not only through resources, but through relationships.

Still Growing, Still Becoming

While the garden is still in progress, every stage brings us closer to something fully flourishing. Every beam installed, every layer of soil added, and every plant placed into the earth is part of a larger story, one of dignity, sustainability, and hope.

This is not just a construction project. It is a living expression of what becomes possible when a community comes together with purpose. 

Thank You

To every donor, partner, supporter and volunteer! Thank you.

With of your generosity, this project continues to move forward. We are building something that will continue to grow long after the first harvest and we can’t wait to see this garden flourish.