The P-Patch Giving Gardens donated over 42,031 pounds of organic, pesticide-free produce to local food banks and meal programs in Seattle. Donations increased compared to the previous year, helping those facing food insecurity, despite challenges from climate change and the ongoing effects of the COVID-19 pandemic, according to the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.
In 2024, the Magnuson P-Patch donated 5,830 pounds of produce, with Chris Budech, the Food Bank Coordinator at Magnuson, contributing to the effort. He said, "People in Seattle shouldn’t be hungry, and we can provide fresh organic produce. I think gardeners recognize how expensive that produce is and work to provide it" Established in 1973, the P-Patch program supports over half of Seattle’s 90 community gardens, where volunteers grow and share food with those in need, as reported by the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.
Volunteers help provide fresh produce to residents, as one gardener at Troll’s Knoll noted, “When I have access to fresh produce, it feels restorative in so many ways, and I know costs can be a barrier. I want to help spread those healthy feelings and overcome those barriers, even if I only have a little bit of time to give.” Their efforts have led to increased food production and volunteer involvement, continuing the mission to support community well-being, as stated by the Seattle Department of Neighborhoods.
