Providing resources to grow healthy veggies is a major part of the Grassroots Gardens WNY mission, but what happens to the food once it’s grown? For some community gardens, a public-facing farm stand is the best way to distribute fresh produce to their neighbors. In partnership with Lake Shore Savings Bank, we were able to provide new farm stands with roofs for community gardens during the 2025 season!
Grassroots Gardens WNY was awarded a Community Reinvestment Grant, as part of Lake Shore Savings Bank’s Putting People First initiative. Depending upon the specific garden’s needs, two garden stand sizes were offered: larger stands with metal roofs, and smaller, wheeled stands with an umbrella.
Here are some of the gardens with new stands in the 2025 season:
Greenwood Community Garden in Buffalo welcomed its new farm stand in August, just as a majority of the produce began to ripen. Acting as a starting point for those entering the garden, the farm stand displays welcoming messages and a place for community notes.
Old First Ward Community Garden‘s old farm stand served the community for many years. Through grant support, the newly constructed farm stand replaced a structure that had become worn through many Buffalo winters.
It retains the same welcoming sign from the original stand and has a bit more storage space!
The new farm stand at Gazebo Park on Mulberry Street in Buffalo immediately reflected the character of its garden. Gardeners brought a stylized sign that fit the dimensions of the stand perfectly.
The stand’s sign offers an encouraging message for the neighborhood: “Live well, laugh often, love much.”
Situated at an important intersection, Seneca-Babcock Community Garden grows strong between the community center and a Seneca Street bus stop. With increased foot traffic in front of the garden, the centralized farm stand helps gardeners distribute their bounty more effectively.
Additionally, Grassroots Garden WNY installed farm stands at Lincoln Memorial United Church Garden, Winslow F.K. Block Club Community Garden, and Garden in the Sun. We extend our deepest thanks to Lake Shore Savings Bank for supporting our community gardens with this generous grant!
Grassroots Gardens WNY provides resources to community spaces each season thanks to partnerships with companies, foundations, and generous supporters.
Every donation makes an impact, as we grow healthy food, heal systemic harm, and strengthen neighborhood connections.
