Join Homeless Garden Project and the Santa Cruz Public Library for a workday on the farm, along with cooking demos, lunch, a panel discussion about affordable housing, and opportunities for engagement with local community organizations, all in service of creating more affordable housing and supporting individuals to transition into jobs and housing.
The event is free and open to the public.
Join us for a workday on the Homeless Garden Project’s 3.5-acre organic farm, along with cooking demos, lunch, a panel discussion about affordable housing, and a special bilingual book reading by the author of *A New Harvest* a children’s book inspired by the Homeless Garden Project. Megan Westersund will present the cooking demonstrations based on her recently released cookbook, *From the Garden, Simple Recipes Celebrating the Homeless Garden Project.* Westersund says, “This book was designed to be a helpful tool for those new to cooking and serve as inspiration for seasoned chefs.” Recipes range from “One-Basket Strawberry Jam” to “Roasted Carrots with Thyme.” (11:30-12:00)
Lunch will be provided by Holey Roller Bagels! (12-12:30)
The panel discussion will address local affordable housing efforts, which are central to our community’s work to end homelessness. Panelists include Dr. Robert Ratner, Manager of Santa Cruz County’s Housing for Health Division, Rayne Perez of the Housing Authority of Santa Cruz County; and Jessica de Wit, City of Santa Cruz Housing Department Manager. The panel will be moderated by former mayor Don Lane, who is the chairperson of Housing Santa Cruz County. (12:30-1:00)
Cristina Exposito Escalona will read from her award-winning book, A New Harvest, a book appropriate for children ages 7-14 years, inspired by Cristina’s visit to the Homeless Garden Project. A number of community organizations will be available to provide information about how to get involved in serving our community’s needs. (1:00-1:30)
