Sharing is caring – something we used to tell our children to encourage the positive character trait. And it worked!
Did you know you can share the excess produce from your garden, call it a bumper crop, with the community? This sign pictured above was on one of my neighbors mailboxes and the basket was filled with lemons from a tree in their backyard. That is certainly one option for sharing. You could also include some produce you produce in care packages to family, friends and neighbors by leaving them on doorsteps at this time of quarantine.
If you want to make more of an impact, you can donate your extra produce to your local food bank. They always have a need for fresh foods, just check with them first.
Here in Phoenix, AZ, we have the oldest food bank in the country. St. Mary’s Food Bank is the original food bank. They have an interesting story of how it all started. Go to their website to read all about it.
Typically, homeowners in the area with citrus trees have more than enough for themselves, family and friends. St. Mary’s has a program to gather the excess fruit for distribution through their food boxes. If you are one such homeowner (well lucky you), a quick search of their website will guide you through the donation process.
Maybe you live in the Denver, CO area. Well, a quick search had me reading about a fantastic program there in the Centennial State. It is literally called Community Food Share, pretty easy to understand what they do with a name like that. They have a “Grow a Row” program for home gardeners to pledge home grown produce for those in need. If you don’t have room for a garden, they also encourage assistance with community gardens. This is a great opportunity to give back to the community by just giving your time.
My children might be grown, but I still believe that sharing is caring. During this time of staying home to flatten the curve, helping your community is so important and allows us the opportunity to know we have helped. Donating to your local food bank really helps those in need. There are so many options to donate, too. Contact your local food bank to see how you can help. I have just listed a couple food banks and options, but there are so many possibilities. Let us know how you have decided to help.
