Valley Gem: Amity Harvest Community Garden at E. 7th Avenue & Amity Street | Homestead
Every Monday evening, something special is happening at the corner of E. 7th Avenue and Amity Street in Homestead.
Volunteers gather to weed, water, plant, and harvest—but the real growth happening at Amity Harvest Community Garden goes far beyond vegetables and flowers. It’s a place where neighbors become friends, children learn where food comes from, and a shared commitment to community continues to flourish.
For this edition of Valley Gems, Steel Valley Accelerator sat down with longtime volunteers Deb Romanek and Melissa Shaffer-Kann, who shared what keeps them coming back week after week. Their stories are different, but they share a common theme: the garden has become much more than a place to grow plants, it’s a place to grow connections.
Jennifer Miller knows that feeling well.
Ten years ago, while walking to the gym, she noticed someone working in the garden. Living in an apartment without a yard, she missed gardening and saw an opportunity to get involved. What began as a simple volunteer experience has grown into a decade of service, and today Jennifer helps lead the garden.
Her passion isn’t just for gardening, it’s for creating a welcoming space where everyone belongs.
“I started volunteering because I loved gardening and wanted to help beautify the Steel Valley. Today, we welcome people of all ages and experience levels. We hope children can learn about nature, businesses can use the space to connect, and our community continues to grow together. I love hearing people say, ‘It looks just lovely.’ But the most important thing that happens in the garden is the friendships that bloom. Plant a seed, grow a friendship.”
That simple phrase, “Plant a seed, grow a friendship.” perfectly captures the spirit of Amity Harvest Community Garden.
Everyone Is Welcome
One of the best things about the garden is that you don’t need experience to get involved.
Whether you’re an experienced gardener, someone looking for a new hobby, a family wanting to spend time outdoors, or simply looking to meet new people, there’s a place for you.
The garden also offers opportunities for local businesses and organizations to become involved through volunteer days, sponsorships, and team-building activities while helping maintain a beautiful community green space.
Visit or Volunteer:
Amity Harvest Community Garden
E. 7th Avenue & Amity Street
Homestead, PA 15120
(Across from Aldi)
Mondays 6PM – 8PM
Interested in volunteering, donating supplies, sponsoring the garden, or organizing a team-building evening?
Contact Jennifer Miller at jrm081275@yahoo.com
—–
Valley Gems is Steel Valley Accelerator’s ongoing series highlighting the people, places, organizations, and businesses that make Homestead, Munhall, West Homestead, and the surrounding Steel Valley such a special place to live, work and grow.
