We Sow We Grow Project Transforms West Pullman Vacant Lots into Thriving Urban Farm

By Socialhood News · Il/Chicago/West Pullman · February 18, 2026

West Pullman residents have a growing reason to celebrate as the We Sow We Grow urban farming project continues to transform once-vacant neighborhood lots into productive community spaces. Founded by longtime residents Natasha and Shomari Nicholes, the initiative has become a vital neighborhood resource focused on teaching residents how to grow their own food while strengthening community bonds.

"The mission is to teach people how to grow their own food, while also being a resource and a community builder within West Pullman," explains Natasha Nicholes, who was inspired by childhood experiences with her grandmother's "kitchen garden" in Memphis. The project's raised garden beds, currently dormant during winter, will soon spring back to life with an impressive variety of produce including tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, watermelons, cantaloupe, honeydew, zucchini, pumpkins, squash, okra, cauliflower, eggplant, and sweet corn—all available for purchase by local residents. The farm even maintains a chicken coop for fresh eggs.

Community members interested in learning more about urban farming or participating in upcoming spring planting workshops can visit the We Sow We Grow Project website. As Natasha emphasizes, "When you can take a vacant lot and turn it into a real, productive use-something that is going to outlive us and continuously improve our lives-that's the power of community." It truly represents a legacy of resilience and positive change for the neighborhood Natasha calls home.

Sources:
1. https://abc7chicago.com/post/chicago-urban-farming-sow-grow-project-taking-back-soil-west-pullman/18585798/
2. https://www.chicagomag.com/city-life/old-neighborhood-new-blood/