This is a wonderful community resource, run by DC Parks and Recreation's dedicated staff like Josh Singer and many regular volunteers. Lederer Gardens is keeping the spirit of Nannie Helen Burroughs alive in Ward 7. Unfortunately, the greenhouse was burned down and not operational, and that has interrupted some of the wonderful programming and preparations for plantings.
Unlike most communal farms that I have volunteered at, this one has two real bathrooms, not portapotties. The trailer with the bathrooms is air conditioned and provides a respite from laboring in the sun. There is refrigeration space which helps for food distributions. There are several picnic tables that are covered by a large shelter and make for an ample outdoor teaching space. This area also has a grill (I think), and an outdoor sink. They have areas along the walking trail behind the main enclosure where things are planted. They have a seed library and weekly volunteer hours on Wednesday and Saturday mornings (come at 9:00 am). Later on (11 am), they have a veggie giveaway, prioritizing elderly folks. But, on a day where there aren't many volunteers, there may only be a handful of produce for each person in line (there is a line!). Volunteers get veggies too (first pass), so with volunteering, not only do you get the best of the harvest, you get to maximize the benefit of the giveaway and help folks receive the nutrition they need. Some giveaways coincide with Capital Area Foodbank distributions, so there is a possibility of getting more food - I believe the biggest distribution is once or twice a month on Wednesdays.
With DC Mutual Aid Apothecary, we would make free custom herbal tea blends for seniors at Lederer Gardens during the summer - it was such a learning experience to speak with folks and learn about their challenges - people with cancer, autoimmune disorders, etc. Reminder to lead with love and kindness. If you can't tell, this is one of my top 3 urban agriculture spaces in DC. Still deciding if I should review other favorites (hidden gems with no Yelp reviews).
Anyways, if you do visit, know that some folks are renting plots here and very possessive of their private garden area. The rest of the plots are managed by dedicated staff, so please ask them permission before picking anything (the raspberry bushes at the entrance are open to all). They have to show you the areas you can pick from. read more