Help us grow!

The Pacific Garden Program provides unique spaces on Stockton and Sacramento campuses for Pacificans to relax and connect with each other; connect with nature; develop life-long skills of growing and using fresh produce, and form a better understanding of sustainable food systems. Both gardens were initiated by student interest and the Program continues to meet the continued demand. With seeds out of stock, concern for farmworker health and more people cooking due to the pandemic and recent wildfires, it is evident learning how to grow food more sustainably is not only desired it is necessary.

The Ted & Chris Robb Garden provides fresh produce to the Pacific Food Pantry. Staff not only help grow food but help engage students and classes through workshops, social media and virtual class tours. However, the biggest impact is on the 6-8 student gardeners hired every year. Dozens of students have passed through the program and ten have gone on to additional training at Ecology Action. Student gardeners typically start off timid and careful, but by the end of the experience, they have not only learned how to grow food, they are empowered. They have learned how to start somewhere (even if they don’t know everything) and to experiment, adapt and make changes. Lessons that will be with them whether or not they garden in the future.

Produce sales help us to purchase heirloom seeds and update old, worn-out equipment, but your gift is vital to helping us continue to support this critical learning experience for students. It will allow us to continue growing gardeners and informed eaters.