D65, in collaboration with Evanston NAACP and Evanston Grows, successfully submitted the Minneapolis Foundation's Great Lakes Environmental Justice Thriving Communities grant application for a total project award of $350,000. We will know the grant award decision by mid-summer.
Project Goals: The Black Heritage Garden Network will benefit tract 8092 in Evanston's majority-Black 5th Ward. Our project addresses food insecurity, environmental education and health, and celebrates Black farming heritage.
D65 Activities include: Utilize funding for Foster School outdoor learning garden design, construction and materials, supplies and native plants, along with tools for the outdoor learning gardens.
Evanston NAACP Activities include: Design historical educational signage and a trail walk on the community garden grounds (across the street from Foster School) to celebrate Black ecological/farming heritage.
Evanston Grows Activities include: Establish a new community garden (across the street from Foster School), supply fresh produce to residents through two free weekly farm stands and local food pantries, and offer workshops and classes on gardening, nutrition, and food literacy to residents.
