Global Garden Refugee Training Farm

In the heart of Albany Park, Chicago, a once-vacant lot has been transformed into a thriving urban farm by 100 families from Bhutan, Burma, Africa, and other regions. This initiative, known as Global Garden Refugee Training Farm, was established to improve access to fresh vegetables for newly arrived refugee families and their urban neighbors. The farm not only provides a source of fresh produce but also serves as a sanctuary for displaced farmers, reconnecting them with the soil and food production. Over 75 refugees actively participate in growing vegetables, contributing to the local community and fostering new, refugee-operated farms.

The farm operates on organic principles, ensuring that the vegetables grown are free from synthetic pesticides and fertilizers. The focus is on sustainable farming practices that nurture the soil and promote biodiversity. Refugee farmers bring their traditional agricultural knowledge and techniques, which are integrated with modern organic farming methods. This blend of practices not only enhances the quality of the produce but also enriches the soil, creating a resilient farming ecosystem.

Global Garden Refugee Training Farm is a non-profit organization dedicated to feeding the souls of displaced farmers and providing supplemental income for participating refugee families. The farm's mission includes fostering new, refugee-operated farms, thereby extending its impact beyond the immediate community. The farm's produce is available for purchase at local farmers markets, through CSA programs, and at partnering restaurants. Additionally, the farm offers volunteer opportunities, farm visits, and events to engage the broader community in its mission.