On Saturday, October 1, 2022, the Town of Cottage City and Bloomin’ PGC Partners organized a Community Garden Summit to engage and connect those currently gardening or interested in community gardening. We had a fantastic turnout of community leaders and politicians, such as Councilwoman Jolene Ivey, Senator Malcolm Augustine (surprise guest speakers), leaders from faith-based organizations, educators, and residents interested in community gardening. The Summit started with great information on the Piscataway Tribe presented by David Proctor. He happens to be a Cottage City Community Gardener. Commissioner Wanda Wheatley energized the crowd to make meaningful connections and look forward to the community resources shared throughout the Sumit. Then, we heard a realistic and engaging presentation from Community Garden member Brittney Drakeford on the lack of food access within Prince George’s County and how to keep your Community Garden connected with the community by hosting events in the garden, staying active on social media, and engaging residents with community gardens. Next, we heard about real experiences from Prince George’s County community gardeners, River of Life Community Garden, Fiesta Place Community Garden, and Laurel Community Garden. These gardeners shared the successes and challenges that they face day-to-day. Attendees then brainstormed and shared their skills as community gardeners. They shared testimonies and resources and networked with fellow and aspiring community gardeners. We then recharged with some food catered by Chef Rasheed Abdurrahman and enjoyed one another’s company. Cottage City Community gardeners Denise Hamler and Mark Haskell led the attendees to the Cottage City Community Garden for a guided tour. Guests were able to take resources and giveaways. Kathy Jentz from the Washington Gardener donated back issues of her publication, as well as some seeds pending availability.
For more photos from the event, click here.
Thank you to the following Bloomin’ PGC Partners for sponsorship and support:
- Prince George’s County Food Equity Council
- Prince George’s County Department of Parks and Recreation (M-NCPPC)
- Prince George’s County Planning Department (M-NCPPC)
- Prince George’s Soil Conservation District
- Prince George’s County Department of the Environment
- Prince George’s County Office of Food Security
- University of Maryland Extension
By Heather Jordan, Prince George’s Food Equity Council, 2022
