Speaker: David Oates
As food prices climb ever higher, more households rely on secondary sources of food supplementation to meet the basic needs of their households. Fresh produce is often considered a luxury item. Community gardens can provide fresh produce, while food banks and food pantries also bridge the gap of food insecurities. Specific needs gardens or donation gardens target select audiences and cater to those who may not be served by traditional community food gardens or food distributions. Jefferson County AgriLife Extension and Jefferson Master Gardener programs are excited to work with non-traditional community partners such as our local Nutrition Senior Services programs, specifically the Meal on Wheels program, to provide fresh and in-season vegetables to supplement the prepacked meals that are distributed to local recipients. Creation of an on-site garden and the collaboration of a local church garden have created a perfect opportunity for volunteers while filling a basic need of food security for meal recipients.
This discussion will focus on collaborative efforts of creating new non-traditional and successful opportunities in community partnerships and effective volunteerism for success.