Katie’s Krops is seeking young growers across the Lowcountry as it prepares to launch two new youth-based gardens in 2026, expanding its mission to fight hunger through youth-led agriculture.
The nonprofit announced that applications are now open for youth and youth-led organizations interested in starting new Katie’s Krops Gardens in Dorchester, Berkeley or Charleston counties. The new gardens are made possible through support from Big Green.
Youth volunteers with Katie’s Krops hold a tub filled with freshly harvested bell peppers, part of the organization’s mission to grow food and donate it to neighbors facing food insecurity. Katie’s Krops is now accepting applications for two new youth-based gardens in the Lowcountry for 2026.
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The opportunity is open to youth ages 8 and older and youth-led groups committed to growing food to share with neighbors experiencing food insecurity.
“Katie’s Krops has never believed in ‘one and done,’” founder Katie Stagliano said. “We build relationships. We grow together. We serve together. Some of our gardens have been growing alongside us for more than a decade, and that long-term commitment is something we are incredibly proud of.”
Selected participants will receive the materials and support needed to establish and sustain a garden, including 10 raised garden beds, irrigation supplies, soil, spring plants, seeds and ongoing guidance from the Katie’s Krops team. The raised beds measure 54 inches wide, 19 inches high and 30 inches deep and may be arranged in a wavy line or configured into a circular layout.
A young Katie’s Krops grower holds freshly picked eggplants during a summer harvest. Katie’s Krops empowers youth to grow food and share their harvest with people in need while developing leadership skills.
Photo provided
Garden supplies, excluding plants, will be distributed in late January. All gardens must be planted for the spring 2026 growing season no later than April 15 and maintained throughout the summer, a requirement that is especially important for school-based applicants.
Participants are expected to provide meaningful opportunities for youth to grow and serve, report harvest totals and photos through a private Katie’s Krops grower website, and maintain regular communication with the organization. Finalists may be asked to participate in an interview or site visit.
Katie’s Krops said it is seeking long-term partnerships with applicants who are eager to grow food with purpose and make a lasting impact in their communities.
Applications close at midnight Jan. 15. More information and the application are available at katieskrops.com/apply-today-to-start-a-katies-krops-garden.
Katie’s Krops empowers youth to grow vegetables and donate their harvest to help feed people in need, while building leadership skills and community connections.
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