In the beginning...

It was just a large, empty lot; the property of White Memorial Hospital. The Proyecto Jardin Community Garden was established in 1995--the brainchild of ... who approached the Hospital about converting the fallow land into a garden for the Boyle Heights surrounding community.

After 2 years of negotiation, the Hospital graciously agreed and the Proyecto Jardin project was begun. With the help of about 50 community volunteers, the land was cleared, plans were drawn up, and the garden began to take shape.

On March 1, 1998 the call went out and 100 eager volunteers of all ages arrived to build the garden. Individuals with specific skills were invaluable.

Construction on the land continues to this day as improvements such as restroom facilities, lighting, security, and decorative projects are carried out and make the garden even more efficient, attractive, and productive for all users.

On ... 1998? a dedication ceremony for the new community garden took place. The community turned out in droves and has continued to support the garden--as producers and consumers--ever since.

On this day, the Grupo de Danzantes Cuauhtémoc from Boyle Heights was invited to perform sacred dances of dedication.

Today, the Proyecto Jardín continues to provide residents of the area a place where they can produce some of their own food items and thereby help their families to survive.

It is estimated that approximately 100 families utilize the land to produce fruits and vegetables for their tables.