Families join La Mesa Verde through our 11-month introductory garden course. La Mesa Verde provides the necessary supplies for an organic backyard garden to 50 new low income families a year, including two 4’x 8′ garden beds, organic soil and compost, drip irrigation, and organic seeds and seedlings. Families participate in monthly garden workshops taught by Master Gardeners and LMV members, which include both sustainable garden practices and critical analysis of the food system. By participating in La Mesa Verde, families develop gardening practices that increase overall health and well-being, and join a supportive, organized community.