First Name:
Audrey
Last Name:
Green
Major Department:
Sustainable Development
Thesis Director:
Joy James
Date of Thesis:
May 2009
The research is preceded by a background in the history of community gardens. It details the positive effects created by community gardens, namely community building and increased social ties. Also, this paper explores the struggles faced by community gardeners, and how these struggles unite a community. The current social and financial benefits of community gardening are investigated. Benefits of community gardens include reduced welfare costs, reduced drug use and violent crime, urban beautification, strengthened community ties, awareness of local organic foods, and healthy, nutritious, local foods for low income families.