Welcome to the Garden
A Little History…
This garden was originally started and stewarded by members of the congregation. When we were no longer able to manage this work on our own, the Master Gardeners from Oregon State University Extension came in to help coordinate the care of this garden.
Accessibility + Nutrition.
The FISH Food Bank garden on the Spirit of Grace Campus provides highly nutritious fresh vegetables and fruits that go directly to FISH Food Bank distribution on the day of harvest.
The focus is on basic crops that are preferred by food bank clients, that are especially expensive in stores, and that grow well on this site.
The amount produced by the garden each year ranges anywhere from 1,200 - 2,500 lbs of fruits and vegetables and varies depending on many factors, including density of crops, volunteer capacity, and weather events.
Community Education…
The garden is also a site for community education. From schools to clubs to church groups, our focus has been on the youth. Especially with at-risk youth in educational and therapeutic programs.
The variety of educational offerings have ranged from all-day school programs, regular visits with mentors to volunteering with a teacher. We do periodic workshops for adults as well.
These programs + workshops have varying topics like our worm compost bin, digital microscope, pruning and tomato and pepper tasting contest just to name a few.
Volunteering…
Master Gardeners and community members of all ages volunteer for all stages of the year's work, from planting seeds and layout, starting transplants, maintaining soil health, weeding, controlling pests, irrigating, harvesting, and composting waste from the food bank as well as the plot itself.
There is a weekly general work party, as well as other roles in which to get involved. Local businesses and organizations and churches do one time projects or work days with their staff/members.
For More Information on how to volunteer or participate…
Please contact Come and get your hands in the soil that feeds our community!
Contact: Tracy Willett
Email: willett.tracy@gmail.com