Family Gets Zoning Changed To Re-Grow An Urban Farm Dream

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Back in 2012, a family’s vision to rebuild old farm into a flourishing urban farm started to take bloom.

One of the greatest goals of the new urban farm, called Martin’s Garden is that no less than 30% of what they produce or do on the property will be directed towards charities and helping others.

For instance, one-third of all vegetable produce being sold to local restaurants and farmer’s markets will be donated to the Atlanta Community Foodbank.

The farm originated with Mr. Ora Coleman, who shared his farm with the whole community for over 5o years in Roswell, Ga. (13.4% Latino).

After Tony and Shari Martin bought the farm, they worked with the city to rezone the land from suburban residential back to agriculture to refurbish up their farm.

Now the farm continues to flourish with a farm manager who hopes to continue the legacy of the farm for the city and for kids to be able to come and connect reconnect with the food they eat.

Having local urban farms, community gardens, and open farmers markets can help provide more access to healthy foods like fresh fruits and vegetables for Latino families, who often live in areas with little access to fresh produce.

Working with local zoning laws, and pushing for more urban or community gardens can help spur desirability towards healthier eating for all.

To learn more about healthy food environments for Latinos and all neighborhoods, click here.

To see a report of healthy food access in your neighborhood, put in your zip code to see a report here.