Grow Food. Share Hope. End Hunger.

Thank you for your interest in Island Harvest’s Community Giving Gardens program.

By growing fresh produce and sharing your harvest with neighbors in need, you’re helping strengthen our local food system and ensure more Long Islanders have access to nutritious food.

When every meal matters, your garden can make a real difference. 

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Grow Food. Share Hope. End Hunger.

Thank you for your interest in Island Harvest’s Community Giving Gardens program.

By growing fresh produce and sharing your harvest with neighbors in need, you’re helping strengthen our local food system and ensure more Long Islanders have access to nutritious food.

When every meal matters, your garden can make a real difference. 

Whether you’re a seasoned gardener or just getting started, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

What is a Community
Giving Garden?

Community Giving Gardens are home, school, faith-based, community, and even corporate gardens where participants grow fresh fruits, vegetables, and herbs specifically to donate to Island Harvest for distribution to neighbors facing food insecurity.

Get Started

Ready to Start a Giving Garden?


Register to express your interest in joining the Community Giving Gardens program and to receive resources, guidance, and ongoing support from Island Harvest.

Register Here

Join a Virtual Training

Our virtual trainings walk you through everything you need to know—from planning your garden to harvesting tips.
Learn More
Register Here

Get Started

Ready to Start a Giving Garden?


Register to express your interest in joining the Community Giving Gardens program and to receive resources, guidance, and ongoing support from Island Harvest.

Register Here

Join a Virtual Training

Our virtual trainings walk you through everything you need to know—from planning your garden to harvesting tips.
Learn More
Register Here

Community Giving Garden Spotlight:

From Playground to Produce


What was once an abandoned playground is now a thriving Community Giving Garden at Temple B’nai Torah harvesting over 1,800 pounds of fresh produce for neighbors in need. Powered by volunteers and a deep commitment to community, this garden is growing far more than food.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in a Giving Garden?

Anyone can participate!

Do I need gardening experience?


Not at all. Giving Gardens are open to gardeners of all skill levels. Our virtual trainings and educational resources are designed to help beginners feel confident and experienced gardeners grow even more effectively.

What can I grow?

We encourage growing fresh, nutritious produce such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, leafy greens, herbs, and more. Specific guidance is provided during trainings to help you choose crops that thrive locally and meet community needs.

Where does the food go?


All donated produce is distributed through Island Harvest’s network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and community partners, helping to end hunger across Long Island.

How do I donate my harvest?


Once registered, you’ll receive instructions on how and where to safely drop off your produce, or pick up will be arranged, as well as best practices for harvesting and handling food.

Is there a cost to participate?

There is no cost to register or participate. In fact, we provide seeds, starter plants, soil, and gardening tools. Some gardeners choose to donate supplies or resources, or use their own, but it is never required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Who can participate in a Giving Garden?

Anyone can participate!

Do I need gardening experience?


Not at all. Giving Gardens are open to gardeners of all skill levels. Our virtual trainings and educational resources are designed to help beginners feel confident and experienced gardeners grow even more effectively.

What can I grow?

We encourage growing fresh, nutritious produce such as tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, squash, beans, leafy greens, herbs, and more. Specific guidance is provided during trainings to help you choose crops that thrive locally and meet community needs.

Where does the food go?


All donated produce is distributed through Island Harvest’s network of food pantries, soup kitchens, and community partners, helping to end hunger across Long Island.

How do I donate my harvest?


Once registered, you’ll receive instructions on how and where to safely drop off your produce, or pick up will be arranged, as well as best practices for harvesting and handling food.

Is there a cost to participate?

There is no cost to register or participate. In fact, we provide seeds, starter plants, soil, and gardening tools. Some gardeners choose to donate supplies or resources, or use their own, but it is never required.

Thank You for Growing With Us

Your interest in our Community Giving Gardens helps bring fresh food, dignity, and hope to our neighbors in need. Together, we’re cultivating stronger communities—one garden at a time.

If you have questions or would like additional support, please don’t hesitate to contact Cassidy Kirch at cassidy@islandharvest.org / 631-873-4775 x229