Hart Lane Neighborhood Farm

Since 2013, dedicated neighbors have worked to transform a neglected, overgrown set of abandoned lots on the 500 block of Hart Lane into a neighborhood garden to heal the years of trauma experienced by the surrounding community. These formerly blighted lots used to serve as a magnet for illicit uses, becoming covered in needles, condoms, and short-dumped trash, even as the neighborhood lacked sufficient green spaces. Hart Lane Neighborhood Farm has grown from these humble beginnings to host 80+ garden volunteers per year growing fruits and vegetables to share with neighbors, many of whom live in deep poverty and lack access to fresh produce.

Our dedicated gardeners have created a refuge to serve as a beacon of hope amidst the opioid epidemic that has killed thousands in our city each year. They work tirelessly to safeguard the lots from future development, partnering with PA Horticultural Society and crowdfunding to maintain this beautiful space. Gardeners donate fresh produce to neighbors and nearby non-profits, create bouquets of flowers for neighbors and fundraisers, provide a safe and accessible space for gatherings, host volunteers from numerous city social-service agencies, provide a compost system to divert organic waste, and have partnered with an artist from Mexico City who created a beautiful Monarch Butterfly mural. The Hart Lane Farm hosts weekly gardening hours that are open to all.