The Hyatt Park Keenan Community Garden at the Leroy Moss Center continues to thrive as a key community engagement component, educational source, and space for fresh, locally grown produce. The $1,000 grant from the Community Resource Connection (CRC) enabled significant improvements to the garden in 2024, further advancing its role as a vital resource for the Hyatt Park neighborhood and community center.

The additional grant funding was used to improve soil quality, update irrigation systems, and bring more edible crops to the community. With a focus on cultivating easily identifiable and easy-to-grow plants, the garden featured tomatoes, basil, onions, cucumbers, and other herbs. These choices encouraged community involvement, increased accessibility, and made the garden a recognizable and inviting space for residents of all ages.

Last summer, the PITCH Inc. volunteer team played a pivotal role in transitioning the garden from its past fall crops, ensuring a productive growing season. The harvest was freely available to community members, contributing to local food security and strengthening neighborhood connections. The garden also served as a focal point during PITCH Inc.’s Free Pop-Up Grocery Store events, where it frequently became a topic of conversation and admiration.

Another highlight of the season was the two summer camp sessions hosted for children aged 5–13. During the first session, summer camp participants explored the garden and learned about the origins of fruits and vegetables they eat every day, fostering curiosity and awareness about food systems. The second session engaged the children in a hands-on activity to prepare fresh salsa using garden-harvested ingredients. These experiences combined practical learning with opportunities to promote healthy eating habits and culinary creativity.

Despite the garden’s successes, we encountered two notable challenges in 2024. An automated irrigation system malfunction caused under-watering of the tomato plants, resulting in plant decay and underproduction towards the end of the growing season. Additionally, Hurricane Helene inflicted damage to the larger community garden area, temporarily restricting use of the educational space. 

Efforts are underway to address these setbacks. We have received a small grant from the City of Columbia, SC and will apply to a new grant with the Richland County Neighborhood Improvement Grant Program. Repairs to the garden are expected to be completed by spring 2025, allowing for a full reopening to students and visitors.

Thanks to CRC’s support, the Hyatt Park Keenan Terrace Community Garden remains a dynamic and essential resource in our neighborhood. It continues to provide fresh produce, foster educational opportunities, and serve as a gathering place for collaboration and community-building. Moving forward, we are committed to maintaining the garden as a safe and happy space.

We extend our deepest appreciation to CRC for their investment in this project and their role in helping us cultivate a healthier and more connected community.