Global Gardens

supporting refugee farmers in Boise with training, land, and access to the local food market

Global Gardens is a program of the Idaho Office for Refugees. They welcome farmers and gardeners to engage in work that brings them joy, provides nutritious food for their families and community, and earns a fair wage within the local food economy. Global Gardens helps farmers access land, training, and markets and provides more than 100 community garden spaces.

Many refugees come to Boise with agricultural experience in their home countries. Participation in community gardens and agricultural training programs is a natural fit for them in Idaho. Refugees face numerous cultural, linguistic, and economic barriers while entering the market as farm entrepreneurs; Global Gardens is focused on breaking down these barriers and supporting refugees as full participants in the local food economy.

They envision longer tables, fewer walls, and rich cross-cultural community collaborations that enable an equitable, inclusive, and profitable local food system. Global Gardens participants gain hands-on field experience and business development skills and are empowered to thrive as independent farmers. 

Farmers sell seasonal vegetables through their Community Supported Agriculture program, wholesale to restaurants and grocery stores, and at local farmers markets.

Photo Credit: Mari Isaac