A once-empty lot behind Church of the Cross in north Modesto now hosts a thriving community garden with more than 140 plots and growers from across the globe.

"We have over 140 plots, probably six nationalities out here. Everything is growing out here," said garden coordinator Everett Leon-Guerrero, who helps oversee the roughly 1.5-acre site with volunteers, including longtime gardener Benny Villarreal.

Gardeners pay $50 a year for a plot, which includes access to water, shared tools and waste disposal.

"We are a nonprofit. The church is kind enough to give this land to them. They pay $50 a year, which is a screaming deal. And we're always looking for donations," Leon-Guerrero said.

The plots produce familiar staples like tomatoes, peppers and zucchini, alongside crops tied to garde

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