COMMUNITY FEATURE Ray were also kind enough to have our conversation out of the hot sun and under the shelter of their tent. One vendor I met, Ashanta, told me it was his first time vending his organic soap with Mo Betta Green. Ashanta said he has known Beverly for a long time, and like everyone that I spoke to before him, he is thankful for having an opportunity to be in this space and believes in the power of community. I spoke with and exchanged contacts with Lizzie and John under their tent, which resembled an African boutique — in the middle of Five Points. The market also included a live DJ spinning several hip-hop classics. Mo Better Green is a shining example of how urban farming and community activism can come together to create sustainable change and make convincing impacts on people’s lives. By providing fresh produce, educating residents, and fostering a sense of community, they play a crucial role in improving the overall well-being of Denver’s underserved populations. Their efforts contribute to reducing food insecurity, promoting healthy eating habits, and enhancing the quality of life for many individuals and families in the area. I thanked Grant for her contributions to the Black community and asked how I could give back. She told me about her Community Farm Dinners series, where a local chef is highlighted along with music, delicious food, and community resources. I assured her I would be there to support them. After I arrived at the community dinner, I walked around the newly acquired Blue Bear Farm, named after the iconic “I See What You Mean” blue bear sculpture that peers into the Denver Convention Center’s windows. I was amazed at the 5,000-square-foot farm. This was Mo Betta Green’s first year operating this farm, in addition to their farms in the Five Points, Cole, and Northeast Park Hill neighborhoods. Produce grown at Blue Bear Farm is supplied to local restaurants, markets, and community organizations. This helps to support the local economy and provides Denver residents with access to fresh, nutritious food. Metro Caring, an anti-hunger organization that works with communities to meet people’s immediate need for nutritious and culturally relevant food is one of the many local organizations, schools, and businesses Mo Betta Green collaborates with. I spoke with Emily Settlecowski from Metro Caring about the need for American society to shift the narrative. As we discussed, instead of asking, “What we can do about food insecurity?” the question should be, “Why do we have food insecurity to begin with?” Mo Better Green’s partnerships help support various programs, increase community engagement, and promote a holistic approach to food security and health. At the heart of Mo Better Green’s mission is the concept of food justice. They advocate for equitable access to nutritious food, particularly in neighborhoods that are often classified as food deserts, or areas with limited access to affordable and nutritious food. Mo Betta Green’s work has helped to bridge the gap in food accessibility and ensure that all community members can enjoy the benefits of fresh, healthy produce. Their dedication to food justice and community empowerment continues to make a significant difference in Denver. After everything she has done for the community, it’s time we give the “Matriarch of Five Points,” Beverly Grant, her flowers. Or maybe even, the Key to the City. ■ BLUE BEAR FARM WITH DCPA “ALIENS” DANCING IN THE BACKGROUND. CREDIT: YVENS ALEX SAINTIL VIEW FROM INSIDE THE GREENHOUSE AT BLUE BEAR FARM. CREDIT: YVENS ALEX SAINTIL SOME OF THE FRIENDLY VENDORS AT THE FARMER’S MARKET. CREDIT: YVENS ALEX SAINTIL PORTRAIT OF JOHN. CREDIT: YVENS ALEX SAINTIL August 2024 DENVER VOICE 7
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