Community gardens bolster food security and urban social infrastructure

Research into urban community gardens highlights their role in enhancing food security and social connectivity. A study of the Flores Family Community Garden found that participants value these spaces for fresh produce access, community connection, exercise, and mental health benefits. Notably, participants reported that the shared community aspect and the ability to access free resources improved their perceived food and nutritional security compared to individual gardening or store-bought produce.

In Philadelphia, the Philadelphia Garden Data Collaborative (PGDC) has focused on using data infrastructure to protect community-managed green spaces. While these gardens are vital to urban social infrastructure, they face risks from insecure land tenure and systemic disinvestment. The PGDC uses data stewardship and mapping to advocate for these spaces, enabling interventions to prevent evictions and supporting long-term preservation strategies. However, researchers note that increased visibility through data must be paired with secure land tenure and public investment to mitigate risks associated with bureaucratic neglect.