WELCOME TO
Radiance Gardens
We offer a space to heal mind & body in the soil
You were never meant to live disconnected
from God’s promises.
You were never meant to live disconnected
from your cultural foods and the land.
You don’t need permission to reclaim your access
It’s already your inheritance
through Christ!
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We provide food education and resources to support underresourced Black communities in reclaiming their food sovereignty and wellness by growing culturally relevant foods and herbs to combat food apartheid.
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We create community gardens and educational programs where people of all ages can learn to grow, cook, and heal through food. We partner with farmers, schools, churches, and local organizations to expand food access, youth leadership, and food sovereignty initiatives.
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Sovereignty
Cultural Heritage and Identity
Sustainability
Community Empowerment
Education and Knowledge Sharing
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Because food apartheid is not just a gap in access; it is a wound of land loss, redlining, and systemic rasicm. It is food injustice that has separated our communities from God’s promise of inheritance to land and abundance to food. This isn’t charity work; it’s justice work. Food is not only comfort; it’s about power, culture, and nourishment. When our communities are stripped of fresh, affordable, and culturally relevant food, it’s not by accident — it’s by design. No one should be forced to choose between paying rent and buying vegetables, between culture and convenience, between dignity and despair. And when we reclaim our right to land and food, we reclaim our humanity. This fight isn’t just mine; it’s ours!
Our Community Work
Visit Us
We are grateful for the partnership to co-manage Mansfield Community Garden through Gather New Haven.
To donate, volunteer, or join the community garden at 191 Mansfield St, New Haven, CT 06511 , please complete the form below:
Testimonials
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You have such strong passion connectivity building connections within our state with kindness generosity thoughtfulness and inclusive! - Ali Ghiorse, The Foodshed Network
Your work is so important! Keep up the great work! Thank you for keep us informed! - JaTorra Commodore, Rise Your Vibe Collective
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She's the bees knees! - Michelle Mccabe, Council of Churches of Greater Bridgeport
Vetiveah is amazing! - Kashia Diaz, KD Gastronomy Consultant
I’m so proud of the work and advocacy you do! - Melissa Holfiena, Professor Southern Connecticut State University
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Teaching nutrition in my class was truly transformative with Vetiveah. Her passion, knowledge, and dedication ignited a spark in our students, inspiring them to make healthier choices for a lifetime. Your impact will forever be cherished! - Mrs. Sims, Bridgeport Public Schools
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You are making a difference, improving the lives of people through education and growing opportunities! Well done! You are a shining star! - Micki Bello
Thank you from Michael and Amelia Howard we are so proud of you and we thank you for being part of our journey we have learned from each other! - Amelia Howard, Eden Place Farms
Donate to Radiance Gardens
Together, we can end food apartheid and restore dignity through culturally rooted, community-driven solutions.
Your support helps Radiance Gardens grow fresh, healthy food; teach hands-on food and gardening education; and empower communities to reclaim sovereignty over their local food systems.
Your gift helps us build new raised beds, purchase seeds and soil, replace worn tools, and create a welcoming space with signage and a tool shed for our volunteers and youth programs.
Radiance Gardens, Inc is fiscally sponsored by Christian Home Educators Support System, Inc (CHESS).
“Food is a tool of resistance. It’s about empowering people to have control over their food system, to eat the food that nourishes them and their community."
Karen Washington
"The land wasn’t the crime; it was just at the scene of the crime."
Leah Penniman