Oakland nonprofit revives East Bay nursery for fresh food hub

In El Sobrante, Contra Costa County, an agricultural nonprofit named Planting Justice is revitalizing a former nursery site to promote access to fresh food in lower-income communities. The initiative aims to establish a weekly farmers market and a complex called 'The Good Table,' which will feature a garden, nursery, and a cafe made from recycled materials. This project is rooted in the community's agricultural history, fostering a sense of familiarity and welcome among residents. Planting Justice is committed to supporting local food vendors by eliminating participation fees at the farmers market, allowing them to build their customer base without financial barriers. Any unsold produce will be purchased by the nonprofit for distribution through a mobile food truck or used in a commercial kitchen for food preparation. This approach not only helps vendors but also addresses food waste in the community. The nonprofit also focuses on social justice by providing job opportunities for individuals who have been formerly incarcerated. The nursery has successfully created over 165 living-wage jobs, contributing to the re-entry program's mission of reintegrating these individuals into society. Simone Robinson, a former participant, now serves as the 'Mother Lead' at the nursery, emphasizing the transformative power of working with plants. Overall, this initiative embodies a holistic approach to community development, emphasizing sustainability, food justice, and the importance of not wasting resources, whether they be food, materials, or human potential. The project aims to create a vibrant hub for fresh food and community engagement in a historically agricultural area.