Last Tuesday I had the privilege of attending the February Master Gardener meeting to briefly discuss my ideas and progress for the Produce for the People Project. Let me tell you that this group of people has a true passion for the community and are a lot of fun to be around. There was a great deal of enthusiasm for the project and even some helpful ideas to consider.
One of the issues that was brought up was how will this whole thing be organized and coordinated. Great question! The mission of this project is simply giving to those in need. There are a few organizations that have “formally” accepted fresh produce donations, but the idea is to find a need and fill it. I’ll list the organizations that have already said that they would be willing to participate below.
Department of Health & Human Services, Huron County
Contact Person: Mike Sutherland, Volunteer Coordinator 989-269-9201
· The DHS and Mike will be the “central” donation location for donated produce. Mike and his volunteers should able to help in just about any way needed to ensure produce is picked up and/or delivered to families in need. I am hoping to meet with him soon to work out further details for how to donate fresh produce with the DHS.
Huron County SafePlace, Bad Axe
Contact: 989-269-5300
· Will accept fresh produce depending on need for the facility at the time of donation. Please call before donating fresh produce to find out need and acceptable drop off procedures.
Oakwood Senior Citizen Housing, Caseville
Contact: Deanne, 989-856-3323
· Currently has about 47 senior residents and would only need a smaller donation of fresh produce. Please call before donation to make sure staff is available to unlock activity building, where seniors can come and pick from the items available.
Pigeon Bread Basket Food Pantry, Pigeon (the old elementary school gym)
Contact: Rhonda Buehler, Marek Witczak, or Gary Wiley @ Pigeon River Mennonite Church, 989-453-2596, 989-856-3455 (Marek), 989-856-7652 (Gary)
· Dates for 2008: March 15th, May17th, July 12th, Sept. 20th, and Nov. 15th (10am to 1pm) Donations for fresh produce will most likely be accepted the day before the event and the morning of the event, but please call before donating produce.
You don’t have to limit yourself to just these organizations for donating your produce. You could contact any organization in your town or senior housing facility or any other group or cause you feel is in need.
Thanks again to the Huron County Master Gardener group for allowing me to attend to the meeting.
