Baton Roots is a program of The Walls Project, a nonprofit organization that focuses on community revitalization and economic development through the power of art, education, and enterprise. Baton Roots aims to fight food insecurity and promote food sovereignty in one of the most disinvested communities in the nation.
"Baton Roots is a fantastic urban agriculture program that is a model for Baton Rouge and the state. Baton Roots is working to provide educational experiences for all ages and increased access to fresh, healthy, nutrient-dense food that is needed in our community. This signature program of the The Walls Project is working to develop a more sustainable, equitable, and just local food system in Baton Rouge. Please consider giving to The Walls Project during 225GIVES and supporting this important work." -Carl Motsenbocker
The Baton Roots program provides fresh produce to local residents for free through its four-acre garden without fences. The garden, which is located at BREC's Howell Community Park, allows people to come and harvest fresh food at any time.
Baton Roots also has three gardens located at public high schools, allowing students, staff, and faculty to help grow produce and then take home fresh food for free.
In addition to urban agriculture, Baton Roots also conducts community education programs to teach people about sustainable food systems and how to grow their own food. The program also engages volunteers in its efforts, providing a meaningful and impactful way for community members to get involved and give back.
As a program of The Walls Project, Baton Roots is part of a larger effort to revitalize and empower communities through various initiatives, including workforce development, public art projects, and coalition building. By supporting Baton Roots, donors are not only helping to fight food insecurity but also contributing to a larger effort to create sustainable, thriving communities.
Baton Roots Highlights:
Community Garden @ BREC Howell Park - 4-acre community garden
11 East Baton Rouge Parish Housing Authority garden locations
Three High School garden and workshop locations (Capitol Senior High School, Istrouma High School, and Scotlandville Magnet High School)
Hustle & Grow - High School Urban Agriculture Curriculum
Sow Good Saturday - Monthly community garden workshops
Five full-time employees
Click here to learn more about the Baton Roots program.