2025 Summer 3rd Edition
NLR Community Garden Newsletter
Garden Spotlight: Hays Senior Center Garden Grows More Than Vegetables Tucked within the Hays Senior Center is a flourishing gem that’s quietly making a big impact—the Hays Senior Center Community Garden. What began as a small container garden has blossomed into a vibrant space for growing fresh food, sharing stories, and building connections across generations. The garden is lovingly tended by members of the community center who have come together not just to plant and harvest, but to connect, learn, and enjoy the outdoors. Numerous wooden push carts built into raised beds make the space accessible and the crops easy to manage. The variety of plants, including tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and flowers, will be shared with members on a weekly basis. “This garden gives us a reason to get outside and move,” says one volunteer, “but more than that, it gives us purpose and something to look forward to.” The Hays Garden is also a beautiful example of what can happen when we invest in green spaces for all ages. With its friendly faces, and ongoing care, it offers more than just produce—it offers community, education, healing, and joy.
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FALL 2025 FUNDING APPLICATION DUE ON JUNE 15, 2025 NEW GARDENS ELIGIBLE FOR UP TO $1500 RETURNING GARDENS ELIGIBLE UP TO $5000
Point your camera phone here!
STEP 1: Scan the QR Code to review the application located at the bottom of our website STEP 2: Complete application and compile all required documents STEP 3: Submit everything to NLRNeighborhoodServ@nlr.ar.gov
For assistance with your application, contact RKelly@nlr.ar.gov or NLRNeighborhoodServ@nlr.ar.gov 501-351-0184
Funding & Support for Local Gardens Last call for funding this year! The NLR Community Garden Program provides seasonal funding each spring and fall to support both new and existing community gardens. Active gardens returning to the program may receive up to $5,000 annually for materials, tools, and expenses, while gardens new to the program are eligible for $1,500 to help them establish infrastructure. Beyond funding, participating gardens gain access to free compost, seeds, plants, educational resources, hands-on assistance, and social media promotion. Applications are reviewed twice a year by the Garden Advisory Committee. Apply today!
nlr.ar.gov/communitygardens