Planting an Extra Row Makes a Difference for Foodbank – 2013-07-11
by The Akron/Canton Regional Foodbank
This past spring community members began helping the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank increase its distribution of fresh produce to food insecure individuals by participating in Plant a Row for the Hungry.
The Plant a Row for the Hungry program encourages gardeners to plant an extra row in their gardens and pledge to donate that food to the Foodbank. The program is rooted in the heartfelt tradition of gardeners sharing a bountiful harvest with others.
Last year, Plant a Row for the Hungry provided enough pounds of produce for 11,555 meals.
“Our goal is to ensure no one in our community goes hungry, but ultimately, we want them to have access to the most nutritious food possible,” said Dan Flowers, President and CEO of the Akron-Canton Regional Foodbank.
Among the noise and excitement of community members waiting to receive fresh, free produce from the St. Paul’s Episcopal Church Free Farmers’ Market is a quiet volunteer named Tim. One by one, Tim removes empty boxes from the crowded room and takes them outside to be recycled.