Now that's a small step. However, a local church took on another lot, then a school took on another, and then a community center another, and soon all 10 lots were transformed. The kids got involved. Kids she worked with had no idea where sweet potatoes came from, other than the store, or the truck, so she rooted sweet potatoes for them. She includes kids in gardening wherever possible, as they like responsibility, and gardening.
Kids grow some plants from seed.
She got a women's canning project together, starting with the grandmothers. They had a taste test for the best salsa and chutney recipes, and canned the best one. They sold out in farmer's markets. They need to have some involvement, the IRS takes a dim view of numbers just being lent out. City Council members won't listen to one person, or a small group, but large coalitions get the best attention and service.