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Housing Alexandria marked nearly a decade of urban farming with summer celebrations at The Station at Potomac Yard and The Bloom at Braddock.
Residents and community members toured the gardens, painted a mural and took part in hands-on activities. The gatherings also featured games, refreshments and a petting zoo, while giving neighbors opportunities to meet volunteers and staff.
The events continued a four-year tradition of celebrating the community gardens. Housing Alexandria opened its first garden in 2016 and now manages three sites: The Bloom, The Station and Lacy Court.
Together, the gardens grow about 2,500 pounds of fresh vegetables annually, providing food for more than 250 residents. Crops include tomatoes, eggplant, zucchini, lettuce, basil, carrots, cucumbers, green beans, bell peppers and chili peppers.
Jon Frederick, CEO of Housing Alexandria, said the gardens support more than food production.
“They’re about community, sustainability, and equity,” Frederick said. “These events gave us a chance to celebrate the volunteers, residents, and staff who make this initiative thrive year after year.”
The nonprofit community developer pairs affordable housing with services and resources. Its garden program is intended to strengthen neighborhood connections while expanding access to nutritious food and green space.