Food Sovereignty

Growing our communities' independence from corporate food systems

The Vision

We grow and give away free vegetable starts so that families in our community can start their own gardens and pull away from corporate food systems that don't serve our health or sovereignty. Food systems rooted in profit, not people, have harmed Indigenous communities for centuries.

Our people fed themselves from this land for thousands of years. They knew which plants to cultivate, when to harvest, how to save seeds for next year. That knowledge runs deep in the soil of Mendocino County. Every garden planted by a community member is an act of reclamation—a return to that relationship with the land. One plant becomes a harvest. One harvest becomes independence. One garden becomes a movement.

Food sovereignty is cultural sovereignty. It starts with a single plant in someone's hands.

How It Works

Free Vegetable Starts

We distribute free vegetable starts to community members, with priority given to Indigenous families, elders, and people in recovery. As our supply grows, starts become available to anyone in the community who needs them.

Guidance & Support

Every plant distribution includes garden setup guidance, growing tips, and information about companion planting. We want you to succeed.

Traditional & Common Plants

We offer both traditional Indigenous food plants alongside commonly grown vegetables, connecting you to ancestral knowledge while meeting practical needs.

Community Garden Plots

For those without yard space, we provide access to community garden plots where you can grow your own food and connect with neighbors.

Seed-Saving Program

Learn to save seeds from your harvest so you can plant again next year. Long-term food independence starts with the seeds you save.

Who Can Receive Free Plants

This program prioritizes those most impacted by food insecurity and disconnection from their heritage:

  • • Indigenous Community Members — All tribal nations and Indigenous peoples of Mendocino County
  • • Elders — We honor your knowledge and welcome you to share it
  • • Youth — The next generation of gardeners and food growers
  • • Low-Income Families — Those facing food insecurity
  • • Individuals in Recovery — Those seeking healing through connection to land and community

As our supply grows and we scale this program, starts become available to anyone in the community who comes in a good way.

Get Involved

Food sovereignty is a community effort. There are many ways to contribute:

Volunteer

Help us grow and propagate starts, organize distributions, and support community members in starting their gardens.

Get Started →

Donate

Seeds, soil, pots, garden tools, and other supplies help us grow more starts. Financial donations support our programs.

Contribute →

Partner

Organizations, schools, and community groups—let's work together to expand food sovereignty across Mendocino County.

Partner With Us →

Food sovereignty is cultural sovereignty.

It starts with a single plant in someone's hands.

Connect With Us