Gardening used to fight poverty

11:03:20 15th March 2010

Local gardeners in a US county are being encouraged to get their implements out of the garden shed and help those in need.

The Douglas County Hunger Coalition is seeking help from gardening enthusiasts to donate some of their produce to those who would normally go without, the Superior Telegram reports.

It is asking gardeners to plant an extra row in the garden and donate the associated vegetables to food pantries throughout the region.

Millie Rounsville, director of Northwest Wisconsin Community Services Agency, told the news provider that those who are not keen gardeners can also lend a hand.

Participants can also volunteer to help prepare garden beds or donate supplies to a local community garden that supports low-income families, she said.

The community garden concept is becoming a common feature within many towns, as people seek to grow their own food and encourage sustainability.

The Federation of City Farms & Community Gardens states that the movement has grown in popularity throughout the UK, in response to a lack of access to green space and a means of producing your own food.

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