the City of Gloucester

Check out the Backyard Growers' garden guide to get started. 

Sawyer Free Library Seed Library: https://www.sawyerfreelibrary.org/discover/services-for-you/seed-library/

Learn about free seed giveaway days, vegetable gardening workshops, free community events, and more, on learn about how to backyard garden, and more by checking out the BackyYard Growers’ calendar of events: https://www.backyardgrowers.org/events  

For low and moderate income residents, the Backyard Growers offers a Community Garden Program, Backyard Garden Program, and Grow Bag Gardening Program (perfect for renters or those without room for traditional growing space). Apply to participate and you will receive supplies and training for a small fee: https://www.backyardgrowers.org/community-programs  Backyard Growers provides growing space and vegetable gardening resources, with priority given to low- to moderate-income Gloucester residents.  

Check out these vendors of locally sourced products: 

• Magnolia Farmers Market: https://www.facebook.com/magnoliacommunityfarmersmarket/  

• Annisquam Farmers Market: https://www.instagram.com/annisquamfarmersmarket/?hl=en  

• Marshall's Farmstand: https://www.marshallsfarmstand.com/  

• Cedar Rock Gardens: https://cedarrockgardens.com/ 

• Gloucester Fresh: https://gloucesterfresh.com/   

Find more local producers and retail locations: https://massnrc.org/farmlocator/map.aspx  

Some grocery stores and restaurants carry local produce and goods - look for the local labeling before buying.  

Find nearby CSAs, including many on the North Shore that accept HIP or SNAP: https://massnrc.org/farmlocator/map.aspx  

Save money and reduce waste by planning your meals for the week: https://www.myplate.gov/eat-healthy/healthy-eating-budget/make-plan 

Go meatless on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday or any day - use it as an opportunity to try new foods and recipes.