Written by Janelle Olson
Over the past several years, the Giving Garden, located right down the road from First Free at Harvest Gardens, has been a source of fresh produce to local families in need. In an average season, about 700 pounds of produce is donated to our local food shelf. This season, the garden’s four plots feature onions, tomatoes, peppers, beans, peas and more. Once the produce from these plants is fully grown, delicious, and ready to harvest, it is loaded up twice weekly by church volunteers and delivered to the Salvation Army Food Shelf for donation.
This year’s Giving Garden team is diverse in age and similar in their love for Christ. From elementary-aged students to retirees, the garden’s volunteers make up a hardworking group that gets to engage in fellowship while digging in the soil.
For anyone (kids included!) looking to volunteer in the garden this season, the team would like to extend a welcome to you. No previous experience is necessary. We would be so happy to teach you the basics of gardening if you’re interested in learning!
Gathering in the garden is a great opportunity to work towards a project that blesses families in our local community. If you want to volunteer or learn more, reach out to Dustin & Amanda Loge at theloges@yahoo.com or 612.720.8257.
