TPG grew out of tenants' and community members' desire for fresh produce and to fight systemic food inequity in our community. Facing a history of systemic underinvestment and structural racism, neighborhoods with less money and largely composed of Black and Brown people, like the Tenderloin, have had intentionally limited access to nutritious foods, which in turn harms people's physical and mental health. You can learn more about how to dismantle racism in farming and food access here.
Tenderloin residents and TNDC team members built TPG in 2010, initiating the Urban Agriculture team at TNDC. Once a vacant lot located on the corner of Larkin and McAllister Streets, TPG transformed into what is now a vibrant and vital urban farm. TPG is a core part of the Urban Agriculture team's work building a more equitable food system and fostering a space for connection. Having fresh produce grown on your own roof or down the street and by your own hands provides a sense of self-reliance and empowerment. It means access to important nutrients for the body and mind which in turn means better health overall.
TPG is also a space for connection and personal growth. Many tenants and community members come to the soil for solitude, healing, and a sense of well-being. Throughout the year, we partner with other TNDC departments and organizations like the SF-Marin Food Bank to host community events.
Urban Agriculture at TPG is guided by Harm-Reduction and Trauma-Informed models, principles of Cultural Humility (see Our Approach), and the TNDC values of Collaboration, Equity, Excellence, Inclusion, and Integrity. The team is a core part of our Health & Wellness program housed in the Tenant & Community Services Department.
Located in the Western Addition, the Webster Street People's Garden provides much needed fresh produce to the neighborhood. Webster Street's 1,800 square feet includes a greenhouse, allowing the team to grow more culturally diverse foods and better cater to the community.
