GrowMemphis is a small non-profit that empowers neighborhoods to create and sustain community gardens that produce fresh, healthy food. But that doesnʼt even begin to explain everything GrowMemphis does and is. They are charging to foster a healthy, sustainable and just local food culture in Memphis by providing locals the tools for success in these endeavors. In 2013, look for GrowMemphis to offer trainings such as Community Gardening 101, Urban Agriculture Entrepreneur Program, and Master Soil Builders training. These programs will offer the tools for success.

In addition to their community gardening work, they also convene the Food Advisory Council for Memphis and Shelby County. This collaborative of local food systems stakeholders seeks to ensure that Memphis and Shelby County have policies and practices that eliminate food insecurity and build up the local food economy.

Anna Saffer wanted to be a part of the solution to the food problem we have in Memphis, so she
joined the board of directors to help communicate the message of GrowMemphis. She wants people to know that we have been led astray from real food, and as a consequence, our health and lives are being threatened. "We are a disease ridden country and itʼs because of our food culture. The phrase 'we are what we eat' is fatally true," she says. "I heard once that 'food has been replaced with food-like substances.' Our bodies are inevitably paying the diseased price."

Saffer wants others to get involved in the local food scene! Get educated about the food system, support local and organic farmers, shop at the farmers markets. Support GrowMemphis by volunteering in the gardens - there is no better way to learn than by digging in the dirt with a Garden Leader. They always need money for tools and equipment to support the local gardens. And they always hope that others are spreading our message by telling their friends and family about the good stuff they are doing in Memphis.

Anna Saffer is a wife, mother to a one-year-old, English degree graduate of the University of Memphis, Account Executive at Splash Creative, garden lover, foodie, former waitress, humble Memphian by choice, local enthusiast. Follow her @Memphisbanana on Twitter and Instagram as she chronicles real food in Memphis.