Adopt-A-Flat grows nonprofit's funds
Growing Hope looking for volunteers
Monday, April 19, 2004
BY KATHERINE LOWRIE
News staff reporter
In the spirit of springtime, plant enthusiasts can help grow seedlings that
will later be transplanted into community-based gardens, thanks to a new
program sponsored by the nonprofit Growing Hope.
Through its Adopt-A-Flat program, Growing Hope is providing seeds, pots,
trays, soil and instructions for those who wish to give vegetables, herbs and
flowers a healthy start on their windowsills. Volunteers can opt to plant the
flowers and plants in community gardens, such as those at Perry School, the
Ypsilanti Freighthouse and Ypsilanti Head Start in late May or early June.
Growing Hope executive director Amanda Edmonds said the program is a tangible
way for people to support community gardening projects.
"They have a visual reminder of what they're doing and how they are
contributing - to see that they've grown something and can hand it over to
someone. One
tomato plant produces a lot of tomatoes. That's a lot of tomatoes that can be
distributed to SOS (Community Services) or another place that needs it."
Growing Hope board member Sharon Sheldon said the nonprofit provides good
physical activity and nutritional knowledge to those learning to grow and
harvest
vegetables. "The Adopt-A-Flat program is important because it involves
(people) having access to plants, resources and fresh fruits and vegetables at
no
cost or minimal cost."
Growing Hope also is accepting volunteers and donations for its Ypsilanti
Roots and Shoots program, which teaches youth about gardening, nutrition and
entrepreneurialship.
At 5:30 p.m. May 16, the nonprofit will hold Pasta Verde: Growing Hope
Community Dinner and Garden Celebration at the Freighthouse complete with food,
entertainment and a silent auction of garden-related items. Tickets range from
$5
to $40.
Growing Hope serves primarily disadvantaged populations by promoting
gardening, learning, healthy eating and self-reliance.
Katherine Lowrie can be reached at [EMAIL PROTECTED] or (734)
482-2263.
