Community Garden Project Transforms Urban Neighborhood

What started as an empty lot in downtown Portland has blossomed into a vibrant community garden that serves over 200 families. The Sunshine Community Garden project began two years ago when neighbors decided to transform unused space into something beautiful and productive.

The garden now produces over 2,000 pounds of fresh vegetables annually, with surplus food donated to local food banks. More importantly, it has become a gathering place where people of all ages and backgrounds come together.

"It's not just about the vegetables," says Maria Rodriguez, one of the founding members. "It's about building relationships and creating a sense of belonging." The project has inspired similar initiatives in three other neighborhoods.