This series, “Growing Freedom in Brooklyn,” is based on archival research done on the East at the Brooklyn History Center using articles from the paper Black News. TWCG developed a clear process for communities wanting to create their own gardens. This systematic approach made it possible for residents to transform abandoned lots into productive growing spaces, even without previous experience. The process began with community members contacting TWCG with the address of an abandoned lot they wanted to develop. TWCG would help them obtain a site lease through the city's Operation Green Thumb project, which made unused city land available for community gardens. Next, TWCG representatives would meet with community members to evaluate the lot and discuss a development plan tailored to the specific site and community needs. This wasn't a one-size-fits-all approach – each garden was designed to serve its particular neighborhood and the people who would tend it. TWCG also helped communities identify funding sources for their projects and provided ongoing consulting support. Perhaps most importantly, they made sure new gardeners became familiar with TWCG's resources, creating an ongoing support system that would help projects succeed long-term. This comprehensive approach meant communities weren't left to figure everything out on their own after the initial excitement of starting a garden.
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