Bringing community spirit to radio, ecoWURD Magazine host P.O.C. brought listeners a vibrant discussion on community and urban greenspaces with guest Rebecca Black, Founder of Elves on Wheels, an initiative dedicated to supporting Philadelphia’s unhoused population. 

Black spoke about the program’s mission to install refrigerators with nutritious food across the city, in her previous interview with P.O.C. a year ago, explaining that the nonprofit gives back to Philadelphia by providing essential resources while promoting dignity and access. 

Now, Black spotlighted their past art and education event in Brewerytown Garden, aiming to foster community spirit through live music, poetry, and fresh produce from the local garden. In total, a way to celebrate the multi-faceted use of green, urban spaces.

“It will be a space for people to come and learn and experience new art and experience each other,” explained Black. 

“When it comes down to utilizing green space to coexist and different things as far as culture in the city of Philadelphia,, it’s bringing people into a community garden to talk about art, but then also supporting the people who are supporting the land and want to see better.”

The event also showcased local artists, musicians, as well as the work of community green space advocates. Black emphasized the importance of green spaces, stating that it has become vital for mental and physical health. Black then shared her excitement about the space moving to be a cultural crossroad especially for Black and queer farmers in the area who hope to capitalize their investments in urban spaces for the community. 

“This is a safe place to bring everybody together,” Black said concluding the segment. 

“There are people seeing their block changing, people seeing more beautification coming into the neighborhood and that zip code.”

Listen to the full conversation on Soundcloud below.