The Community Garden project in Mount Vernon offers free garden allotments for area residents to grow their own produce and to provide fresh organic produce to local food pantries. Plot sizes average 5-by-20-feet. The community garden program has served local gardeners and food pantries for the past eight years. Community gardens are a great way to expand access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Gardening is also a great way to enjoy the outdoors, grow your own produce and increase your lifestyle activity. The community gardens offer families and individuals the opportunity to produce healthy organic produce and provide a place for gardeners to share knowledge and skills. Gardeners can also save money on food bills. One project estimated that community gardeners save between $75 to $380 in food costs each season. Mount Vernon is home to three Community Garden sites. The garden sties are free and open to anyone who is interested in learning about growing organic fresh produce. Applications are available for all three garden sites at the First Congregational United Church of Christ.