D’Youville University Awarded Nearly $50,000 Through New York State Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grant Program

D’Youville University has been awarded $49,998 through New York State’s Urban Farms and Community Gardens Grant Program, an initiative of the New York State Department of Agriculture and Markets designed to strengthen community growing spaces, improve local food resiliency, and expand access to fresh, healthy food for New Yorkers.

The award was part of a statewide announcement totaling $2.5 million for 51 organizations working to increase urban agriculture, food production, and community-driven sustainability efforts across New York, reflecting Governor Kathy Hochul’s commitment to supporting food access and affordability.

D’Youville’s project, developed in partnership with East Side Stewards and The Tool Library, will enhance the university’s community garden located near the School of Arts, Sciences, and Education and connect academic learning with hands-on experience through D’Youville’s PACE and service-learning programs. Project components include expanding garden infrastructure, increasing access to fresh produce, developing educational workshops, and building long-term sustainability through community-led management.

“This grant represents an extraordinary opportunity to deepen our mission-driven work at the intersection of education, equity, and community wellness,” said Dr. Denise DiRienzo, Chief Mission Officer at D’Youville University. “By expanding our garden and strengthening partnerships with neighborhood organizations, we are creating meaningful spaces where students and residents can learn, grow, and address food insecurity together. This is collaborative, values-based learning in action.”

East Side Stewards, a key collaborator on the initiative, emphasized how this project will expand opportunities for neighborhood residents while creating powerful learning experiences for D’Youville students.

“We view this opportunity as more than a grant,” said Tendaji Ya’Ukuu, Founder and Executive Director of East Side Stewards. “It represents a pathway for deeper collaboration between a higher education institution and community-based organizations who share the goal of cultivating thriving, resilient neighborhoods. With D’Youville’s partnership, we can expand infrastructure, education, and workforce training that benefit residents, students, and future generations.”

The Tool Library, which has supported thousands of community projects across Western New York, will provide tools, educational programming, and volunteer support to help build and maintain the expanded garden spaces.

“This project reflects the spirit of sustainability and community empowerment that drives our work,” said Darren Cotton, Executive Director of The Tool Library. “We’re proud to support D’Youville University in expanding access to green spaces, hands-on learning, and neighborhood revitalization. Together, we can strengthen local food resiliency and create lasting benefits across Buffalo.”

The initiative is part of D’Youville’s broader mission to foster compassionate, service-oriented leaders and to partner actively with local organizations to support the wellbeing of Buffalo’s West Side and East Side communities.

For more information about D’Youville University and its community initiatives, visit dyu.edu.

About D’Youville University 

D’Youville University is a nationally ranked private university founded in 1908 and headquartered in Buffalo, New York, which offers degrees in the health sciences and business. D’Youville University promotes a healthy mind, body, and spirit. Through transformational educational experiences, students are prepared for growth, career success, and upward mobility. For more information, visit dyu.edu.