January 18, 2017 – FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Contact: Julie Lehman
Garden Project Manager
(517) 853-7809
gardenproject@glfoodbank.org
Greater Lansing Food Bank Offers Training and Resources to Area Gardeners
LANSING, Mich.– As part of its Garden Project, Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB) is now registering individuals and groups throughout Mid-Michigan interested in starting and sustaining community gardens. GLFB is offering three training sessions throughout February and March on subjects such as garden outreach, organizing a garden and managing community garden volunteers. Though the organization is focused on assisting low-income families, anyone is welcome to participate in gardening at GLFB.
“The Garden Project is our way of getting more fresh produce out to families” says Joe Wald, Executive Director of the Greater Lansing Food Bank. “It also gives our clients a sense of pride and agency, to be able to grow food for themselves.” Community gardens increase the natural beauty of Lansing neighborhoods, as well as create opportunities for recreation, exercise and education. Participation in a community garden allows neighbors to save money on grocery bills while increasing access to local fruits and vegetables.
Garden Leaders’ Training Sessions will be held over the course of the Saturdays, on February 18, February 25 and on March 11. These sessions are designed for those who wish to start a new community garden or support existing gardens. New community garden projects in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Gratiot, Shiawassee, Isabella and Clare counties are eligible for to apply for resources and assistance. Contact the Garden Project at (517) 853-7809 or by e-mail at gardenproject@GLFoodBank.org to register and learn more.
Greater Lansing Food Bank (GLFB) is a non-profit organization that provides emergency food to individuals and families in need in Ingham, Eaton, Clinton, Shiawassee, Clare, Isabella and Gratiot counties. It raises money, food and in-kind contributions to meet emergency food needs; coordinates and supports the work of area food pantries; rescues wholesome excess food that would otherwise go to waste; promotes, encourages and emphasizes self-help programs toward the goal of self-sufficiency; and educates the community on hunger issues.
The Garden Project (GP) is dedicated to growing healthy food and cultivating connections throughout the community. GP’s network of over 120 community gardens throughout seven mid-Michigan counties includes gardens operated by schools, churches, service agencies, housing groups and neighbors working together. To learn more about the Greater Lansing Food Bank, visit greaterlansingfoodbank.org.
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