Exciting News from Memphis: Black Seeds Urban Farm Receives Major Grant
If you’re in Memphis, you may have heard some buzz around the Black Seeds Urban Farm in the Greenlaw neighborhood. Well, it’s for a fantastic reason! This summer, Black Seeds was awarded a grant from Fiskars, an international gardening tool brand, as part of their notable Project Orange Thumb. What’s even more impressive is that Black Seeds is one of only five gardens across North America to receive this grant, which includes a whopping $15,000 and a treasure trove of gardening tools!
A Bright Future for Urban Gardening
This isn’t Black Seeds’ first time receiving this generous support; they’re actually one of the rare gardens to bag the grant twice in the history of Project Orange Thumb, which has been running for 20 years now. It’s like finding a golden ticket twice! When you think about all the amazing work going on at Black Seeds, it’s easy to see why Fiskars continues to support their mission.
Leah Huibregtse, the Senior Manager of Communication and Engagement at Fiskars Americas, couldn’t help but express the company’s excitement: “We are so impressed by the great work Black Seeds is doing in this community and feel honored to be part of their story.”
This year is particularly special for Fiskars as they celebrate their 375th anniversary. Their journey started in a small Finnish village back in 1649, and now they find their values of sustainability and making the everyday extraordinary beautifully aligned with Black Seeds’ mission.
Enhancing Community Connections
Founded by the dynamic duo Bobby Rich and Derravia Rich, Black Seeds Urban Farm has its roots firmly planted in serving the community by providing fresh and healthy produce to locals. But they are not just about food; they also create a welcoming atmosphere with cozy seating and hammocks, allowing people to relax and enjoy the greenery surrounding them.
Derravia Rich shared how grateful they are for this generous support from Fiskars: “This grant has significantly enhanced our ability to serve the community, enabling us to expand our urban farming operations and provide fresh, healthy food to more families.” It’s heartwarming to see local initiatives getting the backing they need to thrive!
Bobby Rich similarly expressed his thanks, indicating that the grant will allow Black Seeds to enhance their educational programs and grow a larger crop. “The Fiskars grant has been a game-changer for us.” he exclaimed. “It has allowed us to use essential tools and resources that improve our farming practices and increase our yield.” Their dedication to educating local residents on gardening makes a lasting impact in the Memphis community.
Project Orange Thumb: A Garden of Hope
So what does Black Seeds Urban Farm fundamentally represents? It embodies a local food movement dedicated to cultivating organic, non-toxic, nutritious foods for Memphians who have little or no access to sustainable food options. It’s about bringing fresh produce right to the people and fostering a sense of community and connection with the environment.
Along with the significant grant and the donation of tools, Fiskars employees from their Southaven location rolled up their sleeves and dedicated some time to volunteer at the Black Seeds garden after the award was announced. This hands-on assistance not only supports the farm but also strengthens community ties, proving that when corporations and local initiatives work together, *everyone* benefits.
A Growing Future
In a world where fast food can all too easily become the norm, Black Seeds offers a promising alternative with their commitment to sustainability and health. As they continue to grow, both literally and figuratively, they serve as a reminder of the remarkable power that exists in local food movements and community engagement.
In summary, the grant from Fiskars is not just a cash donation; it’s a beacon of hope for the community of Memphis. With the resources they’ve received, Black Seeds Urban Farm is on a path to continue making a difference, cultivating both crops and community connections. So next time you find yourself wandering the streets of Uptown Memphis, take a moment to appreciate the hustle and heart behind Black Seeds and the incredible journey they’re on.
Author: STAFF HERE MEMPHIS WRITER
MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER The MEMPHIS STAFF WRITER represents the experienced team at HEREMemphis.com, your go-to source for actionable local news and information in Memphis, Shelby County, and beyond. Specializing in "news you can use," we cover essential topics like product reviews for personal and business needs, local business directories, politics, real estate trends, neighborhood insights, and state news affecting the area—with deep expertise drawn from years of dedicated reporting and strong community input, including local press releases and business updates. We deliver top reporting on high-value events such as Beale Street Music Festival, Elvis Week, and Memphis in May International Festival. Our coverage extends to key organizations like the Greater Memphis Chamber and the Memphis Convention & Visitors Bureau, plus leading businesses in logistics, healthcare, and music that power the local economy such as FedEx, St. Jude Children's Research Hospital, and AutoZone. As part of the broader HERE network, including HEREBristol.com, HEREChattanooga.com, HEREKnoxville.com, and HERENashville.com, we provide comprehensive, credible insights into Tennessee's dynamic landscape.
