In Iowa, we live on some of the most fertile soil in the
world. The rich black dirt and our growing season can provide a bounty of fresh
fruits and vegetables.
And that’s good news because study after study proves that
when we eat more fruits and vegetables, we can lower our risk of developing numerous
health issues.
Many enjoy the activity of raising some of their own produce
with a vegetable garden. However, not all of us have the time, space, or
resources to have a garden.
Enter Grinnell Giving Gardens, a new partnership between the
Poweshiek County Community Transformation Grant, Imagine Grinnell, and several
area churches and youth programs. These groups have come together to create
several community gardens in Grinnell.
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| GRMC employees planting the GRMC community garden. |
St. John’s Lutheran Church, St. Paul’s Episcopal Church, and
Summer Street Park will host and manage garden plots and share their harvest
with the community. Plans are to send produce to the MICA Food Pantry during
the growing season.
Giving Gardens expands free distribution of vegetables to
families with low income and members of the community, who help plant, nurture,
water, and harvest the gardens.
Summer youth programs such as The Galaxy and GRMC’s Summer
Camp are getting into the action with garden plots at various locations. The
youth will learn the basics of gardening and maintaining a garden. In return,
they can enjoy the bounty of their efforts. It’s a great way for kids to get
their hands in the dirt and maybe foster a love of gardening.
Gardening supplies were purchased with grant funds and seeds
have been donated by various individuals.
Iowa Community Transformation Grant is working with
communities across the state to provide healthier food options. It’s much
easier to eat healthy when places like convenience stores, farmer’s markets,
and community gardens offer fresh produce. The renewed focus on fresh, locally
grown produce has spurred much interest in the community gardens.
The internet is loaded with resources and information about
gardening and how to incorporate more fresh produce in an everyday diet. Here
are a few places to begin:
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