Porters Quarters Community Farm Outreach Event

Porters Quarters is a historically Black community that has dealt with gentrification and food insecurity for years. The community was founded in 1884 by Dr. Watson Porters, a Canadian physician, who sold the land to African Americans so that they can become landowners. A community farm was created to help the residents of the neighborhoods have access to fresh foods throughout the year, especially during the winters.

The farm has the goal of becoming self-sufficient in the upcoming years. Our Outreach Team helped set up the irrigation system by digging a long trench for water pipes to go through. We also helped clean up the soil beds and removed any weeds or debris that was obstructing the beds.

The community farm has many dedicated volunteers that show up on a weekly basis to help the local residents. Alongside our team, there were other student organizations that were eager to lend a hand. Some of the local senior residents came out to thank us for our hard work and told us more about the tough battles between Porters Quarters and land developers. They even showed us the beautiful mural that was painted just outside the farm to show support for the community.

After this event, our team went out to grab some delicious burgers! We look forward to further helping the farm and the wonderful locals!

Below I've linked some articles that have more detail about the history and current struggles that the community faces. I encourage you all to take some time to read the articles and volunteer if you are able to!

Independent Florida Alligator Article

WCJB Article

Gainesville Sun Article

Volunteer Sign Up

Date: Saturday, October 29th, 9:00am - 12:00pm