Why are you involved with the HGP? I got involved when I worked for the Social Sciences Division at UCSC. Some students from my photography workshops thought it would be a good idea to teach photography to trainees and staff at the HGP. The students have moved on, and I no longer work at the University, but I’ve stayed involved …
At the Homeless Garden Project’s Fall SUSTAIN farm dinner, one of our newest board members, Andre Lafleur talked with our dinner guests about why he decided to join HGP’s Board of Directors. “There were many reasons why I joined HGP’s board—even though I am not certain I have the temperament of a great board member, these reasons added up: Because …
On October 25, Michael Pollan visited the Homeless Garden Project. His visit inspired HGP trainees and staff to prepare a tour of our farm and programs that tells how our programs work, how the farm operates, and how it all comes together to help people find the tools they need to build a home in the world. Michael Pollan is an author, …
“As an oral historian, I cultivate stories. I believe recording and passing down stories sustains us. I believe in stories we can find the seeds of a sustainable future, if we listen deeply. Tonight I want to give you a packet containing nine seeds of wisdom I found hidden in the life stories of organic and sustainable farmers, activists, teachers, …
Some people will walk a mile for a Camel, others will walk 220 miles to help people who are homeless. Ian Keeler, a Soquel resident and business owner, fits that second description. Ian will hike 220 miles, including the entire 211 miles of the official John Muir Trail. Why? Ian appreciates the many ways that the Homeless Garden Project helps people …
More than 60 people helped garden on Martin Luther King Jr. Day Martin Luther King Jr. Day at the Homeless Garden Project has been a designated volunteer day for a long time now. This year saw at least 60 helping hands, and many of them were families with children. “It’s a real treat when we get kids out here, because …
Behind each wreath that hangs at the Homeless Garden Project’s retail store, there is a story. When Robert Cochran, 38, arrived in Santa Cruz two years ago, he brought nothing with him but the clothes on his back and the resolution to turn his life around. He had decided to come to Santa Cruz on a whim, tired of his …
Homeless Garden Project Retail Store brings organic homemade products to Santa Cruzans made by people who need the help. At the new traffic circle close to the wharf, retail store opened its doors Friday for the first “Sweets and Treats” party. Over 120 people got a jump on their holiday shopping as they sampled locally-donated wines and project-made organic treats, …
“Beauty saves. Beauty heals. Beauty motivates. Beauty unites. Beauty returns us to ourorigins, and here lies the ultimate act of saving, of healing, of overcoming dualism.” – Matthew Fox One of the qualities of our farm that engages me and sustains my work at HGP is beauty. In this article, I want to celebrate the farm’s beauty and invite you …
I have been a trainee at the Homeless Garden Project’s Natural Bridges Farm for nearlya year, and what a wondrous year it has been. The wisdom, knowledge, compassion and support, the camaraderie and bonding, as well as understanding and patience that have been showered upon me is without measure, appreciated, and surprisingly now welcomed. It was not always so. For …
