Seeds of Empowerment: The Grace House Garden

Grace House, a sanctuary for empowerment, is dedicated to helping houseless and disadvantaged women on their transformative journey toward a brighter, self-sufficient future. Central to its ethos of renewal and empowerment is their garden project — a vibrant symbol of growth and the healing power of nature.

Led by Operations Manager Anne and supported by Marion Polk Food Share with seeds, starts, and compost, the garden project emerged from a vision to transform old, raised beds into a nurturing environment where residents could develop skills and build a sense of community.

Residents and volunteers collaborate closely, infusing the garden with new life and energy. The atmosphere is one of mutual respect and ownership, as Anne articulates the project’s purpose. “The goal here is a circle of education, teamwork, and emotional connection through group service.” This communal effort not only revitalizes the land, but also the individuals who tend to it, embodying the essence of collective empowerment.

The therapeutic benefits of the garden are manifold. It serves as a sanctuary where residents can find solace and personal growth amidst nature. “Our goal is to provide our residents with a place to be in the moment with themselves,” Anne shares, highlighting the garden’s role as a space for healing and self-reflection.

Moreover, the project is an invaluable educational tool, offering lessons in horticulture, nutrition, and sustainable practices. This personalized approach ensures that each woman’s journey is respected and nurtured, recognizing the diversity of paths to self-sufficiency.

The bounty of the garden is a testament to the community’s collective labor, yielding an array of produce that enriches the meals and lives of residents at Grace House. The future vision for the garden is ambitious, aiming to extend its impact beyond nourishment. Plans to sell produce at local farmers’ markets will introduce residents to business entrepreneurship, teaching valuable skills in finance management, customer service, and the nuances of operating a successful venture.

This step promises not only to support the garden’s longevity, but also to empower residents with practical skills for their futures, all while contributing to the garden’s self-sufficiency.

Grace House and its garden project symbolize the interconnected journeys of empowerment, healing, and community. It is more than just a physical space; it’s a living representation of the transformative power of caring for the earth and each other.

The garden stands as a symbol of what is possible when compassion, dedication, and community converge. It reflects the core belief that every woman has the potential to grow, thrive, and contribute to the world around her.

Through this initiative, residents not only learn to nurture plants, but also rediscover their strength, build confidence, and prepare for a life beyond Grace House.

Thank you to the generous donors and volunteers who help sustain these vital programs by supporting the Food Share’s Community Garden program and wonderful organizations like Grace House.

And thank you to Siletz Tribal Charitable Contribution Fund who joins our donors and volunteers in supporting our Community Gardens Program.