Bronzeville nonprofit celebrates 5th annual Fall Harvest Fest, bringing fresh produce to the South Side

CHICAGO - A Bronzeville nonprofit—dedicated to uplifting residents—is gearing up for its "Fall Harvest Fest" this weekend, and organizers are inviting the public to partake in the festivities.

Committed to creating restorative spaces for youth and adults, alike, New Community Outreach takes a collaborative approach to community engagement. A cornerstone of the organization's efforts is its thriving community garden, which is currently in its fifth season of harvest.

Thoughtfully located in an area where food deserts pose a challenge, the garden is a vital resource for the neighborhood.

"We can all benefit from having more access to fresh produce, especially in the urban scape," said Sonia Wang, executive director, New Community Outreach.

Situated beside Jackie Robinson Elementary School at 43rd Street and Lake Park Avenue, the garden has provided residents with a true "garden-to-table" experience throughout the summer, fostering a deeper connection to fresh, homegrown produce.

New Community Outreach (NCO) was formed in 2017, but its garden sprouted during the pandemic.

"The idea is, yes, come by, work in the garden, grab some produce, but also just linger, to be present and be able to connect with one another," said Wang.

Run entirely by volunteers, the garden offers an array of produce from tomatoes, turnips, and basil to kale, collards, carrots, and more.

Sometimes, young students even help in the garden, utilizing the space as an educational tool during school.

"Anybody at any age, to be able to see creation come to life is a beautiful thing," said Wang.

Every Saturday, rain or shine, volunteers come together during the growing season to pack and distribute bags filled with freshly harvested fruits, vegetables, and herbs.

The organization partners with The Farm in Westmont, which offers supplemental produce items for the distribution bags.

"There is no cost, no stipulation," said Wang. "It’s really about all of us participating together."

As the weather cools, the organization, known as NCO, is gearing up for its "Fall Harvest Festival" on Saturday, Oct. 5 from 10 to 11 a.m., where it will share the fruits of its labor.

"This is kind of our garden distribution—amplified," said Wang.

There, community members will be able to enjoy homegrown produce, garden tastings, apple cider, music, and most importantly, time well spent together.

"Being able to build relationships, so if that’s something that’s your jam, we want you to engage with us," said Wang.

For those unable to attend the festival, NCO will host three additional smaller scale produce distribution days on Saturdays throughout October.

To join NCO’s message center and receive notifications about produce distribution days, text @NCOGarden to 81010.

For more information about NCO, click HERE.