After growing tons of veggies in the garden’s original wooden beds, J.W. Murphy Community Garden received a major upgrade this season thanks to the partnership and volunteer work of the Tito’s Handmade Vodka Block to Block Program.
Sponsoring the purchase and construction of seven durable metal beds, Tito’s volunteers came to Buffalo from across New York State to work on the project. Nearly two dozen people deconstructed the aging wooden beds that served the garden for more than six years. In their place, volunteers assembled sturdy aluminum frames, filling them with fresh compost and soil. Between each of the new beds, woodchip paths were laid out to help keep weeds from growing.
A Personal Touch
Tools used to maintain a garden can take some damage over the years. The lawnmower at the community garden was no exception.
As Tito’s volunteers wrestled with stubborn weeds where new beds were being installed, they quickly realized that the gardeners could use an extra upgrade. After finishing the project, Tito’s donated a new lawnmower to make life easier for the those caring for the community garden.
Going above and beyond for our gardeners shows the true power of the Block to Block program.
Beyond the Garden
Tito’s has supported Grassroots Gardens WNY for three consecutive seasons. Full rebuilds of Seneca-Babcock Community Garden and Lincoln Memorial United Church Community Garden took place in 2023 and 2024, respectively. These construction projects – installing metal beds and double-height wooden beds – increased accessibility and longevity of each garden. Better still: many volunteers involved in this year’s rebuild helped at these past projects.
As part of Grassroots Gardens WNY’s 30th Anniversary Gala, Tito’s sponsored the event and provided a signature cocktail to commemorate the organization’s milestone year.
We’re grateful everything that the Block to Block program has done for our gardeners and our entire network!
Grassroots Gardens WNY provides resources to community spaces each season thanks to partnerships with companies and foundations.
Learn how your organization can support our work by visiting our Give page.
