The lack of access to affordable, nutritious foods makes Maryvale a food desert, and local stakeholders will gather today to plant seeds for the first of several new community gardens, officials say.

The first garden’s roots are at Pueblo del Sol Elementary School, where a group of third-grade students started growing vegetables in milk cartons. The idea grabbed the attention of city, healthcare and philanthropic leaders who want to grow the project beyond the classroom.

There will be about 30 volunteers on hand for the dedication, said Monica Snyder, head of clinical operations for Mercy Maricopa Integrated Care.

“To build approximately seven garden beds, as well as put up some fencing to keep those gardens safe, and maybe do a little beautification,” Snyder said.

Officials hope the garden at Pueblo del Sol will eventually yield a couple hundred pounds of fresh produce. They’ll launch two similar projects in Maryvale this spring, and more are planned for the fall.