By Glenn Rolfe

SEAFORD — Community unity is growing, reflected in the tomatoes, zucchini, peas, watermelon and other organic produce that has taken root in what had been empty lots.

The Seaford Community Garden is an initiative planted by Cass Day several years ago. It has blossomed into a multisite operation — three growing areas at 214 High St. and on North Pearl Street — as well as an expanding army of volunteers.

“Within a three-year period, that has come to life in many ways. The garden is not just about growing tomatoes; it is about growing a community,” Ms. Day said. “Our mission at the Seaford Community Garden is to provide a communal space where residents can come together to grow food, fresh produce, foster community spirit and promote sustainable living.”

The Veterans Garden, launched in April 2023, offers free space for Seaford’s former military members. It joins the Family Garden and the Giving Garden.

Families, businesses, restaurants and organizations can rent spots for a minimal fee, and there are sponsoring options, as well.

The parcels have been donated by Craig Aleman of Aleman Fitzgerald Properties.

Ms. Day presented a project update at the June 11 City Council meeting. She said the newest garden is called the “Giving Garden” because it’s “where we volunteer time, and each row is growing specific food, and all food is given to those in need in Seaford.”

“We broke ground the second week of February this year, on the third lot, and within a three-month period, we are now up 135 pounds of fresh, organic food that we have given to people,” she said.

The effort has a core group of 25 members, who regularly tend to the gardens and participate in related events. About 200 people have volunteered in some capacity, Ms. Day said.

And planting isn’t the only activity going on. In the Veterans Garden, there’s a chess/checkers table for public use and a library box with children’s, gardening and recipe books.

Plus, there are free workshops on gardening techniques, sustainability practices and healthy eating, which are attended by many.

“The garden has become a vibrant hub for community interaction,” Ms. Day said. “It has helped build stronger neighborhood connections and offered educational opportunities to both children and adults.”

She added that collaboration with other organizations, Scouts and schools provides hands-on experience in gardening and environmental stewardship.

For example, in working with the Seaford Middle School National Junior Honor Society, students designed a monarch butterfly preservation garden at the Veterans Garden location, Ms. Day said.

“We are working with community organizations all over Seaford the best we can,” she continued. “We are looking to grow with more plans, future plans, more schools and classes.”

Mayor Matt MacCoy recalled listening to Ms. Day’s hopes at her first informational meeting at the Western Sussex Boys & Girls Club.

“Right from the very beginning, your passion was contagious,” he said. “Your team grew just like the garden grew. I remember walking the plots with you, Craig Aleman and (then-Councilman) Jose Santos, and there was nothing there — empty lots — and to see what you guys have done, figuratively and literally, (you’ve) grown so much. I highly encourage the council, anyone in the city, please to go down and check it out.”

Plans are to expand the garden by adding more plots and resources. This includes a rainwater-harvesting system for conservatory purposes, more benches, a composting area and a small greenhouse, “so we can extend our growing season,” Ms. Day said.

Ideas also include a handicapped-accessible area, more frequent workshops and speakers, braille signage and outdoor instruments.

Among Seaford Community Garden’s upcoming events is the second annual Fall Festival on Oct. 12.

Visit seafordgarden.org for information.