Fresh food for Kent families

KENT — Thanks to a pilot program started this year by the Kent Land Trust and the Kent Greenhouse and Gardens, the Kent Food Bank now has a multitude of fresh produce to offer residents and families in need.

According to Kent Land Trust Executive Director Connie Manes, the Growing Groceries program, which was started earlier this year, asks home gardeners to plant food crops to donate to the Kent Food Bank.

The idea of the program came from Kent Greenhouse and Gardens co-owner Debby Bennett, who noticed several communities around the area with similar programs.

“We encouraged our customers to take part by having a special where, if they purchased six packs of seeds, they would get a seventh pack free if they pledged to contribute to the food bank,†Bennett said. “I think that the more someone has natural food, the healthier they are.â€

A total of 330 pounds of produce was donated to the Kent Food Bank, including lettuce, swiss chard, broccoli, carrots and other vegetables.

“Some of the heavier varieties of vegetables are still being donated, including winter squash and potatoes,†Manes said. “People do end up donating staples to food banks [such as canned vegetables, soups, salads], but fresh produce is something that the food banks need. Fresh produce can be expensive and is usually the first thing to go out of your weekly food budget. Staples can fill your tummy up, but they don’t provide antioxidants and other natural vitamins.â€

The program will continue through the winter and spring.

For more information on the program, contact Connie Manes at the Kent Land Trust at 860-488-9185 or e-mail connie.manes@kentlandtrust.org.

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