On December 7th, 2024, the East McKinney Learning Garden celebrated its long-anticipated Ribbon-Cutting ceremony, marking a milestone in its steady development and unveiling a stunning public art piece created by talented students from McKinney High School. This event symbolized the garden’s vibrant future as a space dedicated to education, sustainability, and community connection.
The East McKinney Learning Garden was established to address local food insecurity by empowering residents through hands-on education in sustainable gardening. It provides a welcoming space for individuals of all abilities to grow their own food, engage with environmental stewardship, and support local organizations by donating fresh produce. Beyond its practical benefits, the garden serves as a hub for educational programs, cultivating a deeper appreciation for nature while fostering sustainability in East McKinney.
Support from Community Leaders and Organizations The ceremony was graced by Mayor George Fuller, Council Members, and representatives from the McKinney Community Development Corporation and McKinney Economic Development Corporation, underscoring the city’s commitment to the project. Sponsors, including Sprouts Farmers Market, played a significant role in the garden’s realization, with Sprouts sponsoring the Sprouts Teaching Pavilion, a cornerstone for future educational activities. Recipients of the garden’s future harvest, including Hugs Cafe, La Tiendita, and Community Garden Kitchen, shared their heartfelt appreciation for this initiative.
Highlights of the Ceremony
Art Unveiling by McKinney High School Students: The students, Madeleine Brubaker, Natalie Merrel, and Rebecca Park, revealed a breathtaking nature-inspired art installation centered around an engraved storm sewer cover. This piece serves as both a celebration of creativity and a reminder of our responsibility as stewards of the environment.
Mayor’s Recognition: Mayor Fuller commended the efforts of Bruce Mead, a McKinney Parks Foundation board member and project coordinator, for his dedication and vision in bringing the garden to life.
Support from Educational Groups: A diverse array of educational organizations attended to show their support, including Keep McKinney Beautiful, Better Living for Texans, Texas Master Naturalists, Collin County Master Gardeners, the Collin County Bee Association, and the Blackland Prairie Raptor Center. These groups share a mission to educate underserved populations and emphasize the importance of environmental awareness and stewardship.
Farmhouse Ale to support the Garden: TUPPS Brewery released a Farmhouse Ale with Lemon, Basil, and Fresh Black Pepper to benefit the Learning Garden. The draft is only available at the brewery.
The Garden’s Vision and Impact
The East McKinney Learning Garden aspires to be much more than a place to grow food. It is a beacon of hope and empowerment for the community. By offering fresh, locally grown produce, the garden addresses food insecurity and encourages healthier lifestyles. It provides opportunities for hands-on learning, teaching residents of all ages and abilities skills in sustainable gardening, environmental stewardship, and self-sufficiency. This dynamic space fosters collaboration, education, and inspiration, strengthening bonds within the community and creating a shared sense of purpose. Through its programs and partnerships, the garden aims to leave a lasting legacy of sustainability, resilience, and inclusivity in East McKinney.
A Heartfelt Thank You, the McKinney Parks Foundation extends its deepest gratitude to everyone who attended the Ribbon-Cutting ceremony. Your support empowers us to continue building on this project and developing similar opportunities to serve our community.
Join Us in Supporting the Garden. If you’d like to support the East McKinney Learning Garden and our mission, click here to learn more or donate. Your contribution helps us continue to grow this vital initiative and bring meaningful change to our community.