Welcome to GIFT Gardens!
GIFT Gardens (Growing Illowa Food Together) is a community-wide initiative that invites individuals, families, and organizations to grow food to fight hunger in the Quad Cities. Whether you're planting a few pots on your patio or a full row in your backyard, your harvest can help ensure our neighbors have access to fresh, nutritious produce.
How It Works:
Sign Up: Let us know you're in by registering online.
Plant to Share: Grow an extra row, pot, or garden bed with donation in mind.
Harvest / Weigh / Record: Let us know what and how much you’ve grown.
Donate: Drop off your produce at designated locations.
Make an Impact: Your contribution goes to local food pantries serving people in need!
Frequently Asked Questions
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Anyone with a little growing space! Backyard gardeners, container growers, church or school groups, and community gardens are all welcome. We provide guidance and support for new and experienced growers alike.
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Because of the elimination of successful programs like LFPA (Local Food Purchases Assistance Program) and government food commodities through the Emergency Food Assistance Program, the River Bend Food Bank is facing a reduction of 265,000 meals this year. By participating in GIFT Gardens, you help increase access to healthy food.
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We’ll offer seasonal planting guides, growing tips, invitations to workshops, a direct connection to a master gardener, produce donation guidelines, and a list of local donation drop-off sites. We’re here to help!
Ready to grow food and feed neighbors?
Sign up here to become a GIFT Gardener.
“Iowa State University Extension and Outreach, Scott County is proud to support the GIFT Gardens initiative. Together, we can grow a healthier, more resilient community and ensure that all our neighbors have access to fresh, nutritious produce. We are grateful to partner with several amazing organizations to tackle food insecurity with innovation!”
