Good evening everyone, My name is Kelli, and I’m a graduate of the Homeless Garden Project. Standing here tonight is something I never imagined I’d do. I’ve been an addict since my early teens, and for ten long years, I was homeless. Drugs controlled my life, and during that time, I lost almost everything — my family, my home, and …
On July 19, 2025 at the Homeless Garden Project’s Sustain Supper at Natural Bridges Farm, program graduates Chris Beresh and Kyle Franks spoke about their experience as graduates of HGP’s transitional employment program. Kyle introduced Chris, reversing roles from their talks in November (available here). Good afternoon and welcome to the homeless garden project farm. My name is Kyle Franks. …
At the Homeless Garden Project, every product tells a story — of transformation, purpose, and care. From the first lavender seed sown in rich coastal soil to the final ribbon tied around a jar of handmade jam, our products are made with heart and intention. You’re not just purchasing a gift; you’re supporting a journey. Let’s take you behind the …
When you shop at the Homeless Garden Project Store—whether in person or online—you’re doing far more than buying a thoughtful gift or a handmade good. You’re investing directly in people working hard to rebuild their lives. Every dollar you spend goes toward paid job training, employment, and career mentorship for individuals transitioning out of homelessness in Santa Cruz. Where Your …
Spring Gifts That Give Back: Thoughtful Finds from the Homeless Garden Project Store Spring is a season of renewal—a time to reconnect, celebrate, and give. At the Homeless Garden Project Store, every item tells a story of transformation and possibility. Whether you’re searching for a meaningful birthday gift, a thoughtful Easter token, or something special for Mother’s Day, our handcrafted …
The following talk was delivered by Gabriela Triguiero at HGP’s Day of Service in Honor of Cesar Chavez on April 5th, 2025 at Natural Bridges Farm. Gabriela is Executive Director of Big Brothers Big Sisters of Santa Cruz County and a member of the Santa Cruz City Council. Good afternoon, everyone. It’s an honor to join you today at the Homeless …
In 1995, I was a teenager. I was homeless with my boyfriend. I was camping out at Antonelli Pond when I came across the Homeless Garden Project. There were a few employees. I went there for water. It felt like a safe place. They seemed to welcome the homeless. I remember visiting often. Later on in the years, I noticed …
When you purchase a candle, bar of soap, or any handcrafted item from the Homeless Garden Project Store, you’re not just buying a product—you’re supporting a story of resilience, transformation, and hope. Behind each handmade gift is a person who has poured their time, effort, and heart into its creation. One of those individuals is Carrie Young. A Fresh Start …
The Power of Shopping with a Purpose In a world where gift-giving can sometimes feel routine, choosing a gift that gives back brings a deeper meaning. At the Homeless Garden Project, every item sold supports our mission to empower individuals experiencing homelessness through job training, skill-building, and transitional employment. Our products are crafted with care, but even more importantly, they …
My name is Alison Alkon and I’m a professor in the community studies program at UCSC. I do research and write and teach about food justice, meaning the ways that inequalities like race, class and gender affect who gets access to healthy food, so clearly an organization like the Homeless Garden Project, that helps folks who are struggling to both …
