Who we are

Damayan is a 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1992 to increase food security for low-income families. For seven years, Damayan was a grassroots, volunteer-run organization planting only family gardens. In 2000, we wanted to extend our reach into the community and use gardens as a teaching tool. To this end, we began planting community gardens in underserved neighborhoods, community centers, and schoolyards. Moving forward, we aim to support our local food systems through community education and collaboration.  

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What we do

To realize our mission, we partner with community organizations and universities to establish garden spaces and implement outreach education. In addition to sourcing materials like soil, compost, plants and seeds, Damayan offers hands-on instruction for new gardeners to master their skills and share their knowledge.  

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Why we do it
Our essential motivation is the belief that everyone should have access to fresh, nutritious food and the health and well-being that comes with eating locally grown, seasonal produce. By planting gardens and teaching others to tend to them without using chemical pesticides or fertilizers, Damayan encourages change toward a sustainable future.