In a city where triple-digit temperatures can make even seasoned gardeners second-guess their planting plans, one Phoenix nonprofit is proving that growing food year-round is possible. Millennial Food Gardens, an urban farm with a mission rooted in generosity, is expanding its impact through a new partnership with Loving Hut and animal rescue Better Piggies.
Tucked into a once-empty three-quarter-acre lot, the garden is the product of determination and vision. Founded 18 months ago by lifelong gardener Jed Riding, Millennial Food Gardens began with a massive undertaking: removing more than 8,000 pounds of rock by hand. From there, Riding built a thriving, high-yield garden using the Mittleider gardening method, a system designed to maximize production even in harsh climates.
“What started as a simple idea has grown into something much bigger than I ever imagined,” Riding said. “We’re not just growing food. We’re showing people what’s possible. Everything we produce goes back into the community, and now even what’s left over is helping feed animals that need it.”
Since its founding in August 2024, the nonprofit has donated 100 percent of its harvest (about 200 pounds of produce each week) to food banks, families, and community organizations. To date, that adds up to an estimated 14,000 pounds of fresh food distributed across the Valley. Through partnerships with Valley View Community Food Bank and Unlimited Potential, the garden has become a consistent and reliable contributor.
The garden’s newest collaboration came together organically. After connecting with Loving Hut Glendale owner Linh La, Riding saw an opportunity to extend the garden’s reach even further. The partnership redirects surplus vegetable trimmings (items not typically used for human consumption) into a valuable food source for more than 200 rescued pigs cared for by Better Piggies.
“For me, this partnership is about recognizing that compassion doesn’t stop at the plate,” Linh La said. “What Jed is doing is incredible. He’s feeding families, educating the community, and now helping care for rescued animals. It’s a reminder that, when people come together, we can create systems that support everyone.”
“Each week, Millennial Food Gardens provides eight to 12 boxes of fresh vegetable trimmings to Better Piggies. People are always surprised by how much food it takes to care for over 200 pigs. Partnerships like this help us keep everyone fed while also reducing waste, which is a win for the animals, the community, and the environment,” said Danielle Betterman, founder of Better Piggies Rescue.
Millennial Food Gardens also serves as a hands-on learning space, offering tours, volunteer opportunities, and educational programs that teach residents how to grow their own food. The approach is practical and forward-thinking. By using controlled growing mediums like sand and sawdust, paired with mineral nutrients, the garden maintains a pesticide-free environment focused on plant health and efficiency.
In a place where the environment can feel like an obstacle, Millennial Food Gardens is reframing it as an opportunity. With every pound of produce donated and every partnership formed, the garden is cultivating something bigger than food. Learn more at millennialfoodgardens.org.
