Garden History

The East Lyme Giving Garden (ELGG) was founded by a group of local volunteers in early 2020 and began with 20 raised beds at the historic Samuel Smith House. In 2021, the Garden received 501(c)3 status and expanded to a four-acre field owned by the Flanders Baptist and Community Church. We are grateful for the church’s support for our mission.

During our inaugural 2021 season, community volunteers ranging in age from 8 to 80 helped to cultivate and harvest eight rows (100 feet long) of organically grown vegetables, and over 4,000 pounds of broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kale, bush/pole beans, cucumbers, carrots, potatoes, tomatoes, peppers, and zucchini. We now have 46, 120-foot rows and plant more than 15 different crops each year. We continue to harvest tons of produce each year and are grateful for the support of area companies, foundations and volunteers. Our harvest is delivered to the Gemma E. Moran United Way/Labor Food Center which distributes it to shoreline soup kitchens, food banks, and directly to families in need. 

During our "off-growing season", the Giving Garden team is active planning for the next year, providing educational programs and participating in an annual conference on regenerative agriculture. Watch our home page and Facebook or Instagram for details.

As our resources and volunteer numbers grow, we will continue to expand our impact on food insecurity in our community. We look forward to working in the garden with more community groups and other volunteers, from school children to volunteer organizations, and welcoming the community to educational and special events. We believe we can make a difference, one volunteer and one bushel basket at a time!