Partnerships Spotlight

ROOTED IN LOVE:
The James Cooper Memorial Garden Feeds a Community

Just across the street from their home of 30 years in Martinez, longtime residents Bob and Bambi Barker have transformed a one-acre plot of land into something extraordinary: the James Cooper Memorial Garden, a thriving community garden dedicated to feeding neighbors in need through Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa.

Seven years ago, driven by a deep sense of community and love for their hometown, Bob and Bambi purchased the land with one goal in mind—to give back. They tiered the hillside, installed a watering system, and began planting. Today, the garden produces a vibrant variety of vegetables and fruits, including squash, cucumbers, tomatoes, peppers, corn, and jalapeños. A peach tree—grown by Bob from seed—stands as a quiet symbol of dedication and care. The garden also boasts grapevines and a kiwi plant they hope will bear fruit this year.

With help from Patti and Don of the Martinez Kiwanis Club and volunteers from Loaves and Fishes of Contra Costa, this season’s crops are now in the ground, promising another bountiful harvest to support local meal programs.

The garden’s name is a tribute to a man who shaped Bob’s life: James Cooper, a neighbor, mentor, and Marine who survived the brutal Battle of Bataan during WWII.

Upon returning home, James founded a Boy Scout troop in Martinez. Bob, a proud member, credits James as a heroic figure who inspired him to give back. “He did so much for the kids in this town,” Bob recalls. “I just wanted to honor his legacy.”

For Bob, gardening is second nature—a lifelong passion passed down through generations. Both he and Bambi now channel that passion into their volunteer work at Loaves and Fishes, where they see firsthand the impact of their efforts.

“We just feel good knowing we can help,” Bambi says. “This garden feeds more than just people’s bodies—it brings people together, and it honors those who made our lives better.”

Thanks to the generosity and heart of the Barkers and their community partners, the James Cooper Memorial Garden continues to grow—not just crops, but hope.