CARMEL- Hamilton County residents will soon have an expanded community garden if this crowdfunding campaign reaches its goal of raising $50,000 by July 17, 2024. If successful, the project led by Fields Market Garden will receive a matching grant as part of the Indiana Housing and Community Development Authority’s (IHCDA) CreatINg Places program.
“The enhancement of the Fields Market Garden will provide residents with additional opportunities, workshops, and events,” said Lt. Gov. Suzanne Crouch, Indiana’s Secretary of Agriculture and Rural Development. “This campaign is the essence of the CreatINg Places initiative and would not be possible without the community’s support, dedication, and vision.”
Funds from this campaign will be used to add a greenhouse to the current garden space, allowing produce, plants, and flowers to be grown year-round. The funds will also be used to provide additional community programming.
“We look forward to creating a space we can share with the community by hosting engaging events, educational workshops, providing fresh local flowers and produce to neighbors, and expanding our employment opportunities for nearby North End residents,” said Kate Sexton, urban farmer at Fields Market Garden.
Since the CreatINg Places program began in 2016, projects have raised more than $10.6 million in public funds and an additional $8.5 million in matching IHCDA funds. The program is available to projects located in Indiana communities. Non-profit entities (with 501c3 or 501c4 status) and local units of government are eligible to apply. Eligible projects must have a minimum total development cost of $10,000, where the recipient will receive $5,000 in IHCDA matching funds should it successfully raise $5,000 through Patronicity. IHCDA will provide matching grant funds up to $50,000 per project.
