A new permaculture garden is taking root in the Beekman Corridor, thanks to the leadership of plant-based chef and Millvale resident Theresa Thomas. Her church, Bethel No. 2 Apostolic Pentecostal in South Fairmount, dedicated its side lot to bring the project to life. Church members are committed to sustaining the garden, with support from community groups like Working In Neighborhoods, which are helping to improve food access and make the corridor more sustainable.
What is a permaculture garden?
Permaculture is a sustainable gardening approach that emphasizes working with nature—not against it—to create a diverse, resilient, and productive food system.
Why is this project so important?
“The Beekman Corridor is located in a food desert where 41% of residents don’t have access to a vehicle,” explained Rigel Behrens, Community Development Planner at Working In Neighborhoods (WIN).
Theresa added another compelling reason: “We were meeting children who believed food was grown in the grocery store because they saw it being watered.”
For Theresa, helping people understand where their food comes from—and how to make the most of what they have—is essential. “I believe in a full cycle—from the garden to the table and back to the garden—where nothing is wasted.”
The new garden features “hugelkultur” raised beds, bioreactor composting bins, and picnic tables. Together, these elements support a thriving, sustainable ecosystem and community space.
Key partners joined forces to bring the garden to life. The Cincinnati Permaculture Institute (CPI) awarded a mini-grant and supported Theresa’s training through their Food Champion program, which will enable her to host design sessions on rainwater capture, native plantings, and low-maintenance garden beds. WIN provided coordination and tools; the City of Cincinnati’s Office of Environment and Sustainability supplied composting equipment; and the Civic Garden Center shared expertise on soil building and perennial plant selection.
Volunteers from Bethel Church, Beekman Corridor neighbors, Duke Energy, and nonprofit partners gathered for build days to fill raised beds, lay mulch paths, and plant fruit trees, shrubs, herbs, and vegetables.
The result? A vibrant shared space for fostering hands-on education, healthy food access, and community connection. “To have a garden where we can educate people is so amazing,” Theresa said.