In my job with Catawba County Government, I had to take pictures of all County owned buildings and property in 2008-2009. While taking them, I became aware of all the empty lots not being utilized. In 2009, while working in my own little home garden, I thought how much food could be produced in a few of the empty plots of property and why doesn't the County or organization start some community gardens. I tried to pass the idea on to bigger organizations that focus on feeding the needy, but it didn't grab their attention. God kept reminding me throughout the year to push on. So I finally determined which of the few lots would work and be convenient to start the gardens. I am also Director/Founder of the WNC Epilepsy Association. So I approached the owners of 2 lots, one was Catawba County Government and the other Catawba County Schools about the possibility of leasing the lots. After a couple meetings and conversations of legal issues involved, both agreed to allow WNC Epilepsy Association to lease the property lots on an annual basis for $1.00. In 2010, the HOPE (Help Our People Eat) Garden Project began.