This project will convert Hughes Memorial Church's 8000sq ft lawn and neglected garden into a community food forest and native pollinator habitat. Stewarded by community members trained by PFFI, this site will function as an environmental educational site for Head Start students who are in school at the church as well as community members of all ages.

Hughes is one of the oldest Black churches in Portland and many of its congregants have been displaced by gentrification. Beyond improving soil health, carbon sequestration, storm water infiltration, native habitat, and food security, this project will revitalize the church's historic community and provide important opportunities for community members to get hands-on experience & technical training in regenerative urban agriculture. Preparation began in June 2025 and planting will begin in spring of 2026. If you’d like to get involved, please visit our volunteer page and sign up to volunteer!

This project is funded by grants from East Multnomah Soil and Water Conservation District and Portland Bureau of Environmental Services.