The offer has been extended through Wednesday, May 6. Even better, with less than 50 boxes left, they’ve been discounted by 50%. For those in-need, the deadline to apply for a no-cost box has also been extended. In the wake of COVID-19, issues around food systems, access, equity and food insecurity are more important than ever, particularly in areas experiencing food shortages and supply disruption. Denver Urban Gardens (DUG) is contributing to that conversation with the development of a new food access program aimed at mobilizing the community to grow more of their own food.
Based on the United States’ history with Victory Gardens during times of war and economic crisis, DUG’s new “To-Grow Boxes” come filled with seeds, seedlings and educational resources to help anyone develop a green thumb — with the goal being for families to be able to feed themselves over the coming months.
In partnership with Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, DUG will be assembling 1,000 boxes for distribution in mid-May.
The box provides just about everything a family needs to get started growing food to sustain themselves through the summer months and into the fall.
No matter, if you are a beginner or seasoned gardener, the box is perfect for community garden plots, your yard and even containers. All you need is soil and basic planting tools.
No space for a garden? Let DUG know when you order your box and they’ll connect you with a community garden.
What’s included in the box?
Seeds & Seedlings – Each box comes with 20 seedlings and 10 seed packets of nutrient-dense plants, including vegetables, herbs and flowers. Everything to get you started in May, as well as what you’ll need for a second planting in July.
Planting Layout and Succession Plan – The box is designed to maximize land and resources. Each comes with two custom 10′ x 10′ plot planting layouts, designed by Senior Advisor and Landscape Architect Michael Buchenau. The plan allows for planting in May and July, for harvest throughout the summer and into the fall.
Planting Resources and Online Support – The purchase ensures access to DUG’s online community and expert resources to support any gardener as they grow their own food. The organization is committed to providing the education and resources necessary to assist gardeners throughout the community.
The boxes will be available for purchase here. The cost is $250 $125. While it may seem expensive upfront, you’ll be planting savings in the long run. Once you harvest your investment in the summer and fall, you will see the savings in your grocery bill.
Plus, getting food from your own backyard means fewer trips to the grocery store. (For each box purchased, DUG will donate another “To-Grow Box” to a family facing food insecurity in the Denver metro area.)
Order before Thursday, April 30 Wednesday, May 6. and, then, get your box via no-contact drive-thru pick-up at one of its nine distribution sites on Tuesday, May 12. (Limited delivery options are available for those who are homebound, immunocompromised or with other special needs.)
Facing economic hardship? Apply for a no-cost “To-Grow Box.” Thanks to generous funding from Sprouts Healthy Communities Foundation, DUG is offering boxes to local families facing food insecurity. If you’re in need, apply here. (The deadline is Thursday, April 30 Wednesday, May 6.)
