Growing Home: Changing Communities One Plant at a Time

Growing Home is a nonprofit, USDA-certified 1.75-acre organic farm located in Englewood, Chicago. Since joining the 61st Street Farmers Market in 2022, customers have come to rely on them for high-quality, delicious organic produce such as greens, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers, and hundreds of other varieties.

What makes Growing Home unique is its mission and the work they do right here in our city. The foundations for Growing Home began in 1993 with Les Brown’s vision to develop an urban farm and training program, which led to its current home in Englewood in 2006.

Driven by the belief that urban agriculture can be a catalyst for change, Growing Home uses its farm as a platform to teach job readiness and employment skills to more than 80 residents who have faced barriers to employment. Participants receive 25 hours of paid, on-the-job experience and readiness training, along with support to overcome challenges such as housing instability and criminal records, helping them move toward greater economic stability.

They also combat food insecurity by providing neighbors with access to fresh produce at discounted prices. Shopping at their stall directly supports their mission to change lives and strengthen their community.

Make sure to stop by their stall this week to learn more and thank their team for a wonderful season!