Growing Food on a Budget

I'd add, for those who don't have land upon which to grow, seek out a local school or other organization...maybe even the local food shelf and ask if they'd be willing for you to start some plants on a pre-determined plot.  There are lots of grants available for this kind of thing, which can easily cover all costs, including tools. I know this because I've done it.  Be sure to check where the outdoor faucets are and plant near those.  Schools often have some sort of garden, but they often turn to weeds fairly soon.  The problem often is that the things grown produce during the summer when school is not in session.

I would suggest planting things that are in season when school is in session.  Asparagus starts in early May,  while apple, pear and quince are ready come September or October.  Persimmons, pawpaws and medlars would be other trees worth mentioning.  My peach ripens in late August/early September. Hardy kiwi mature in October here and they produce thousands of berries. Concord grapes are also amazing!  This isn't to say that other fruits and vegetables can't also be grown.  It might be a destination for students during summer vacation.  Research is key.  I've found better solutions by searching out different varieties of plants.  I grow the Dwarf Gerardi mulberry (6-8' HxW) and the Bushel and Berry Raspberry Shortcake(2'HxW) because both are much more manageable and a better size than the standard plants.

Woodchips can be donated by local arborists.  Planning and sketching and ordering could happen in the off season with a small number of invested students.  With a little research, you could find all sorts of plants that would suit the school as well as you!  Your grant could explain that it's an outdoor classroom, a nutrition adventure and an opportunity to promote all sorts of lessons in ecology and life skills such as cooking and cooperation.  I would suggest that you consider even coordinating with the high school's wood shop to build some arbors, benches and picnic tables for outdoor classes.  

I really love the premise that permaculture involves earth care, people care and fair share.  The 12+ principles like "Every problem is a solution waiting to be discovered" offer really great life lessons. Anyway, it's another possibility.  It would involve some work and coordination, but in return, you could plant the garden of your dreams for zero cost!