Dear Community,

I am so excited for your support of Hilltop Urban Gardens!  The story of HUG is one that I am proud to tell.   As you may know, HUG started as a dream.  I imagined what it would be like to combine justice and equity work with the healing and liberatory practice of growing your own food.  I researched other projects across the country and started learning about food justice work nationally.  I found connections to the international movement for food sovereignty.  My work in Tacoma became clear.  Hilltop Urban Gardens was born!

We are moving into our 4th year of creation and it has been an incredible journey so far.  From two 4×4 beds in my backyard, HUG has grown to 6 neighborhood sites.  In April we will celebrate the one-year anniversary of our Garden Justice Club.  We work with a group of amazing kids age 6-10.  Our sessions range from worm-bin explorations to defining and building the community the kids want to live in.  We also make a lot of good food!

HUG is creating change – yard by yard and neighbor to neighbor.  Another world is possible!  In 2012 we have a bunch of cool events planned to support our mission.  Save the Date: April 22nd for HUG the Earth Day – A Spring Garden Carnival!  And be on the lookout for our 2012 Farm Bill trainings.

Wow!  So much to be excited about with HUG.  I look forward to working with you!

Dean
Director
Hilltop Urban Gardens