Detroit has faced longstanding problems with access to grocery stores and fresh food. A 2022 report sponsored by the Michigan Association of United Ways showed that 69% of Detroit households surveyed find it difficult to afford basic living costs, including food. This is compounded by the fact that 39,000 Detroit households spend more than half their income on housing, leaving them unable to afford other essentials. 

Urban farming in Detroit dates back as far as the 1890s. Today, the city has about 2,200 urban farms and gardens. Many were influenced by programs like the Detroit Black Community Food Sovereignty Network, Keep Growing Detroit and D-Town Farm.

Urban farming continues to be an avenue for residents to take control of their food supply. It also offers health benefits, particularly for those recovering from chronic illnesses. Gardeners in Detroit report experiencing improvement in their mood, reduced stress and better management of chronic conditions, a study of Detroit’s urban gardeners found. 

Outlier Media teamed up with Planet Detroit to speak with three Detroiters to learn more about what urban farming does for them emotionally and physically. Their stories are unique, but all use urban gardening to connect with their communities and understand what’s going in their bodies.

This series exploring the nexus of health, community, and urban agriculture in Detroit is supported by the Michigan Health Endowment Fund.