APRIL 1, 2015
Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center creates Greens ‘R Great garden program
CAVE CREEK – Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center has created a new program to provide fresh produce and seedling starter pots for the more than 2,500 families, seniors and individuals it serves throughout the northern desert foothills communities. The raised bed gardens not only will provide foodstuff for families, but also will provide potted plants so the food bank’s customers can learn how to grow fresh produce on their own. The raised, enclosed gardens are 15’x30’ and 15’x40’ each.
“Our volunteers built a beautiful garden behind the food bank so we can grow fresh strawberries, carrots, lettuce, tomatoes, peppers, cucumbers and more for the families we serve,” says Pam DiPietro, executive director of Foothills Food Bank. “We are excited to offer this new food resource to those in need and to show clients how to cultivate their own food for meals.”
The “Garden in a Pot” program component shows clients to grow their own vegetables including tomatoes, lettuce and herbs in a pot provided by the food bank.
“This fresh produce program gives our clients the opportunity to actively participate in their own nutritional sources,” says DiPietro. “In addition, they grow their own healthy, fresh produce and receive nutritional guidance. Plants in a pot also will stimulate those who are able to volunteer and participate in the gardens at the food bank.”
In addition to the volunteers, many organizations helped bring the garden and potted plant program to life, including:
Boulder Creek Pools & Spas
McKenzie Brothers of Cave
Creek
Elrod Fence
Desert Foothills Landscape
Russ Lyon Sotheby’s International Realty
Cave Creek Building Supply
Walmart Cave Creek
Terroir Seeds
Foothills Food Bank and Resource Center has initiated a fund-raising effort to support the costs associated with the start-up and ongoing maintenance of the garden program. On Wednesday, April 22 from 5 – 7 p.m., the food bank will host a Garden Party – a recognition event to thank contributors and volunteers for their work in bringing the program to life. The public is welcome to attend.
For more details, visit Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center, visit www.foothillsfoodbank.com or email: [email protected]. Donations for Foothills Food Bank & Resource Center can be sent to 6038 E. Hidden Valley Drive in Cave Creek, Ariz., 85331 or call 480.488.1145.
