Bridgeport Early Learning Centers Launch Urban Gardening Initiative to Combat Food Insecurity and Promote Sustainability

BRIDGEPORT, Conn.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--Three preschools in Bridgeport have transformed unused spaces into vibrant gardens, led by youth food advocate Zane Tickoo, Jessica Rosario of Groundwork Bridgeport, and Diego Osses of Green Village Initiative (GVI). These gardens are not only spaces for growing food but also serve as living classrooms and community gathering spaces in urban areas facing significant barriers to food access.

With over 30% of Bridgeport residents experiencing food insecurity, access to fresh and nutritious food remains a pressing issue. The Bridgeport Early Learning Center Garden Initiative seeks to address this by introducing young children to gardening and healthy eating, with a focus on building food literacy and environmental stewardship. The project includes raised garden beds in preschools to teach students about food production and sustainability.

Each participating preschool faced unique building challenges. At Bright Giggles Learning Center, a sunny playground corner was transformed into a flourishing garden. At Hall Neighborhood House, a rain barrel and hex beds were installed on rubber flooring to make the garden sustainable. Precious Memories Early Education Center also installed hex beds directly on concrete, overcoming limited green space.

“These gardens have brightened our space and expanded our students’ horizons,” said Sandrie Blanc, Director of Bright Giggles Learning Center. “Our children now look forward to watering plants and observing growth—it’s brought curiosity and care into their daily routine.”

The initiative was a collaborative effort. Funding from the Newman’s Own Foundation (via GVI) supported the technical design, and Tickoo developed the SEEDS Teacher Training Workshop, which equips educators with tools to integrate plant education into their curriculum. Groundwork Bridgeport played a key role in the construction and ongoing support of the gardens.

“This project isn’t just about planting seeds in the ground; it’s about planting seeds of connection—between people, cultures, and urban spaces,” Tickoo said.

Diego Osses, Executive Director of Green Village Initiative, added, “These gardens demonstrate how even overlooked spaces can become vibrant, purposeful parts of the city. They show how small, positive changes in urban environments can lead to lasting community impact.”

“By teaching young people not only about food but also about their ability to create change, we’re giving them the tools to help build healthier, more sustainable communities,” said Jessica Rosario, Youth Programs Coordinator at Groundwork Bridgeport.

The gardens have already impacted over 500 families by providing access to fresh produce while strengthening connections between schools and local communities.

“Our garden has become more than a learning space; it’s bringing families together,” said Hector Burgos, Early Learning Director at Hall Neighborhood House. “Children are sharing their excitement about gardening at home, sparking conversations about healthy eating.”

The program is set to expand to additional preschools to reach 1,000 families. Future plans also include implementing water conservation systems at additional sites and exploring other urban spaces like rooftops. The goal is to create a network of sustainable gardens that serve as both educational spaces and community hubs.

The Bridgeport Early Learning Center Garden Initiative challenges the notion that food deserts must remain barren. The project offers a new vision—where food literacy, environmental stewardship, and sustainability education grow side by side.

About Groundwork Bridgeport
Groundwork Bridgeport (Groundwork) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization committed to regenerating and improving the physical environment by empowering individuals, businesses, and organizations to promote environmental, economic, and social well-being.

About Green Village Initiative (GVI)
Green Village Initiative (GVI) is a non-profit in Bridgeport, Connecticut, dedicated to growing food, knowledge, leadership, and community through urban gardening and farming. GVI strives to create a more just and sustainable food system in Bridgeport.

About Zane Tickoo
Zane Tickoo is a food advocate focused on agricultural reform and sustainability, with a particular emphasis on urban food systems. With hands-on farm experience and deep expertise in food systems, he believes food literacy and diversity are crucial for public health, the environment, and the economy. Zane collaborates with government organizations, non-profits, and local community groups to create a more sustainable and equitable food system. Watch Zane’s TEDx talk here: TEDx Hartford.