New Community Garden Launched in Columbia Aiming to Combat Food Insecurity

COLUMBIA, S.C. — A New Community Garden Blooms

This past Saturday, community spirit was in full bloom in Columbia, South Carolina. Early risers and passionate volunteers, all part of the Living Wright Foundation, gathered with gusto to plant seeds in what promises to be a vibrant new community garden on Chestnut Street. This project, which has been in the works for over a year, aims to combat food insecurity by growing and distributing fresh produce to those in need.

Community Efforts for a Greater Cause

Organizers shared that the journey to this point has been quite the adventure, involving fundraising efforts to gather around $10,000. The vision? To make fresh vegetables more available to neighborhoods that are struggling with food access. As Vivian Clark-James, the vice president of the foundation, put it, “The cost of fresh vegetables, the cost of everything now, is so expensive.” With such challenges in mind, they are determined to provide healthy, organic options free from pesticides or harmful fertilizers.

Planting for a Purpose

On this delightful Saturday morning, volunteers didn’t just roll out of bed for any old task; they were there to make a difference. United in their goal, they planted winter crops like kale, collards, radishes, kohlrabi, and cauliflower. The community garden is not just a source of produce; it symbolizes hope and partnership among neighbors.

One of the volunteers, Brenda Oliver, expressed her joy in contributing: “It is important because if you don’t form partnerships with others and do outreach, then your community doesn’t progress.” Her feelings echo a sentiment shared by many wanting to see their community thrive.

A Garden Built with Thoughtfulness

The planning didn’t stop at just digging in the dirt. President of the Living Wright Foundation, Robert Percival, emphasized the careful consideration that went into the garden’s layout. “The sun travels like that, it’s east to west. That’s south and that’s north. So, the beds are positioned south running north, which is really an ideal way to position beds,” he explained. This shows just how deeply committed they are to not only meeting immediate needs, but also ensuring sustainable practices.

A Vision for the Future

Right now, the garden features nine raised beds, with hopes to expand by adding seven more in the spring. This endeavor started when the property owner noticed another community garden established by the foundation and graciously offered the space. “The owner of this lot saw what we were doing and said, ‘Hey, I’d love you to come here and do something here,’ and we jumped on that opportunity,” Percival recalled. This kind of support from local property owners only strengthens these community initiatives.

As the months go by, the volunteers remain hopeful to harvest the winter crops planted this weekend, turning these dreams into reality. Their long-term goals include aspirations for more raised garden beds, rain barrels, educational areas, and even compost stations, all to serve the community better.

Get Involved

So, if you’re feeling inspired and would like to pitch in, whether through volunteering, donating, or attending educational workshops, there’s always a welcoming hand. Connecting and contributing to local initiatives like this not only enriches the community but also fosters a sense of belonging. The Living Wright Foundation is keen on making fresh produce accessible, ensuring that no one in the area feels left behind when it comes to healthy eating.

Let’s continue cheering them on as they grow, both the garden and the beautiful relationships that come with caring for one another in our communities!