Beacon Food Forest Gardens – Clearwater, Florida
Grant Award: $4,456
Project: Revitalize a neglected area by planting thirty-two fruit trees, perennial companion plants, and pollinator-friendly annuals.
Outcome: What began as an overgrown, underused space is now flourishing into a vibrant community food forest. With grant support, the team planted all thirty-two fruit trees and more than 100 perennial plants, added pollinator habitat, and cleared new areas for future expansion. This project laid the groundwork for increased food production, biodiversity, and long-term sustainability.
Beacon Food Forest Gardens’ project also fostered community connection. More than 100 volunteers joined the effort, supported by a new partnership with Eckerd College and a community event welcoming refugee families. While an aging irrigation system has temporarily limited expansion beyond the grant-funded plantings, the garden continues to cultivate resilience, education, and belonging—demonstrating how restored land can nourish both ecosystems and community.
