Orlando urban garden forced to close amid ongoing disputes with city.
ORANGE COUNTY, Fla. – Infinite Zion Farms, a well-established urban garden in Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood, has recently become vacant, raising concerns among local residents. For several years, this organization has played a crucial role in educating and improving the health of the community. Ray Warthen, a representative of Infinite Zion Farms, highlighted the significance of their work, stating, “We were bringing in a multitude of diverse colleges into Parramore, where there are no other programs, no other resources. These kids get inspired seeing black and white honor students doing studies on their farm work.”
The areas in low-income neighborhoods with limited access to fresh produce are commonly referred to as food deserts. Warthen expressed his apprehension about the negative impact the farm’s closure will have on the community, stating, “There’s no produce anywhere. I went to each one of those stores from Anderson all the way down to Callahan, and I see kids walking out with Twisty treats. That’s all that’s there.”
According to Warthen, the decision to close the urban garden stemmed from a series of disputes with the city. One such conflict involved the removal of a portable toilet from the property. However, after negotiations, the city eventually permitted its presence. In response to the closure, the City of Orlando issued a statement to News 6, expressing their intent to continue producing local food for the Parramore community. The city stated, “Our desire is to continue producing local food there at the site for the Parramore community. We are currently exploring options to continue that effort.”
Warthen, undeterred by the challenges, has already set his sights on his next venture. He plans to establish a solar-powered farm that will not only promote sustainability but also provide a fresh source of produce for the community. With this vision in mind, he remains committed to making a positive impact on the lives of Parramore residents.
In conclusion, the closure of Infinite Zion Farms, a beloved urban garden in Orlando’s Parramore neighborhood, has left a void that is deeply felt within the community. With the loss of this vital resource, the neighborhood faces the risk of becoming yet another food desert, further exacerbating the existing lack of access to fresh fruits and vegetables. However, there is hope on the horizon as the City of Orlando explores options to continue producing local food in the area. Meanwhile, Ray Warthen, the driving force behind Infinite Zion Farms, remains determined to create a sustainable future through his plans for a solar-powered farm. The story of this urban garden serves as a reminder of the importance of community-led initiatives in addressing food insecurity and promoting overall well-being.
