To combat food insecurity, farmers and gardeners across North Dakota are being called upon to contribute to the Hunger Free North Dakota Garden Project. The initiative urges them to dedicate an extra acre to their land or an additional row in their gardens and donate the harvest to those in need.
Partnering with the North Dakota Department of Agriculture, the Great Plains Food Bank is spearheading this inspiring collaboration to bolster the supply of fresh produce to local food pantries, shelters, and soup kitchens. Grant Nieters, the food resource manager at the Bismarck Great Plains Food Bank, highlights the urgency of the situation, as one in six North Dakotans currently grapple with food insecurity, including one in four children.
Now in its 13th year, the Hunger Free North Dakota Garden Project has made a significant impact. Since its inception in 2010, over 3.4 million pounds of food have been sourced, providing approximately 2.83 million meals to the community. Participating in the project is simple, with interested individuals encouraged to visit the North Dakota Department of Agriculture's website or search for "Hunger Free North Dakota Garden Project" online for further details and drop-off locations for produce donations.
The importance of these efforts is magnified by the challenging circumstances faced in recent times. In 2022, the Great Plains Food Bank witnessed a 14% increase in demand for food assistance, while food donations dropped by 21%. With rising inflation and food prices, the need for community support has never been greater.
Through the collective contributions of farmers and gardeners, the Hunger Free North Dakota Garden Project strives to alleviate food insecurity, nourish those in need, and foster a stronger and more resilient North Dakota community.
Photo Credit: GettyImages-FatCamera
Categories: North Dakota, General