Turning Vacant Lots Into Food Forests

Winston-Salem’s Permaculture Collective is transforming food deserts into lush, edible ecosystems—turning vacant lots into thriving food forests that feed bodies and souls. Their model, praised by the UN and showcased at the “Summit of the Future,” plants native fruit trees, berries, and herbs together to create resilient, self-sustaining landscapes that filter air and water, retain moisture, and need no fertilizer. The Southside Food Forest, alive with over 80 varieties of fruit and berries, thrives on community volunteerism and open foraging. A $2,000 grant helped them distribute trees to locals starting their own forests. Founder Laura Carisa Gardea sees these green spaces as catalysts for community healing and youth connection. With global ambitions and plans to rent the space for events, this urban farming revolution proves that food justice and neighborhood revival can grow side by side. Support the show:Get a discount at https://solipillow.com/discount/dnn. Advertise on DNN:[email protected] This is an automated, high-level news summary based on public reporting.Report issues to [email protected]. View sources & latest updates:https://sources.thednn.ai/8e8ca873de9ca87b