A Phoenix nonprofit urban farm that donates its entire harvest to local families has extended that mission to animal rescue, channeling weekly surplus produce to more than 200 pigs at a local rescue organization.
Millennial Food Gardens, operating on a three-quarter-acre plot at 2508 W. Vista Avenue in Phoenix, has partnered with Loving Hut Vegan Cuisine and Better Piggies Rescue to redirect vegetable trimmings — roughly 150 to 200 pounds per week — that would otherwise go unused after human-consumption portions are distributed.
The garden has donated 100% of its produce since it opened in August 2024, averaging about 200 pounds of vegetables per week and an estimated 14,000 pounds in total. Food goes primarily to Valley View Community Food Bank and Unlimited Potential.
Founder Jed Riding built the garden from scratch, removing more than 8,000 pounds of rock from a vacant lot before planting. He uses the Mittleider gardening method — a combination of controlled growing mediums and mineral nutrients — to grow a variety of vegetables year-round despite Arizona’s heat.
“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.”
The partnership with Better Piggies came through Loving Hut Glendale owner Linh La, who connected Riding with the rescue operation. Each week, eight to 12 boxes of trimmings go directly to the animals.
The garden also offers community tours and volunteer opportunities. More information is available at millennialfoodgardens.org.
