Christopher Dupree, Project Manager 

As a result of a generous grant from the USDA-National Resources Conservation Service, in collaboration with Community Resources Connection, Inc., the Shreveport Green – MLK Community Garden received a new drip line Irrigation system that was installed for constant watering of all 32 raised beds. The Irrigation system help the crops to grow big and bountiful without the worry of insufficient watering.

Over the course of this grant, I’ve had the privilege of witnessing the heartwarming and transformative role that the MLK community and the MLK Community Garden plays in the lives of Shreveport and its residents. The MLK neighborhood, home to a large portion of the city’s hardworking families, is often the unsung backbone of Shreveport, with its residents contributing so much to the city vibrancy. 

Yet, it’s also the largest food desert within the city, leaving its residents over a mile away from access to fresh, healthy food.

The MLK Community Garden has truly become a beacon of hope. What began as a thoughtful partnership between Shreveport Green and Caddo Parish Parks and Recreation to address food insecurity has blossomed into a beautiful, thriving sanctuary in the heart of the community. The garden, a half-acre of green space, is home to fifteen fruit trees, thirty-two raised garden beds, and two covered sitting areas perfect spots for enjoying lunch or gathering with neighbors.

Conveniently located at a city bus stop, the garden sees a diverse mix of residents passing through its gates each day, creating a lively, welcoming atmosphere, ensuring that everyone from young families to seniors can enjoy fresh, locally grown produce. But the garden offers more than just food, it provides a safe, peaceful space where people can read, meditate, or simply escape from the stresses of daily life. In this way, the garden is more than just a place to grow food; it’s a vibrant, nurturing space that feeds both the body and the soul of the community. Over 100 members from the community have been fed from the garden.

The MLK staff received several comments from the community in reference to the garden such as.

“This grant was right on time” – Cameron Davis/Shreveport Green staff”

“I love what y’all are doing with the garden, I love coming out here in the evenings. It’s so peaceful” – Anonymous Community Resident

“It’s beautiful to see the community come together and embrace what y’all are doing with the community garden” – Mr. John Ross/Woodmen Life Rep.

Garden participants received garden related training by Project lead Christopher Dupree

on Tree Planting 101. The group planted a total of 15 fruit trees at the MLK Community Garden. The local partners who assisted toward the success of the garden projects were: ShreveCorps/Tree Planting & amp; Garden Maintenance – Community Renewal (MLK)/Garden Maintenance – Caddo Parks & amp; Rec./Groundskeeping – Woodmenlife/Plant Donation.