TOLLAND YOUTH GARDEN HARVESTS THE BOUNTY

 Throughout the 2013 growing season adult leaders, Youth Stewards and students harvested fresh fruits, herbs and vegetables from the Tolland Garden Paths Youth Garden.  At summer gardening class students learned how to prepare snacks like salsa and dips to share with each other and with their families, learning together what it takes to grow and to make delicious, healthy foods.  Enjoying snacks they created themselves encouraged children’s independence and their likelihood to make healthy eating choices.  They were able to practice reading, science, math and team building skills.  Plus, they made new friends and had a lot of fun!

Community service is an important part of TYG gardening programs. Debbie Kupfer, TYG Volunteers Coordinator and CT Certified Master Gardener, organized dozens of students and volunteers to harvest over 80 lbs of produce this summer for the Rockville Cornerstone Soup Kitchen.  The Cornerstone chef was thrilled to have fresh food to incorporate into the meals served to adults and children who eat their meals at the Kitchen while in temporary need of assistance. 

Volunteers of all ages maintain the TYG.  There is an opportunity for adults, teens and families to pitch in this coming Saturday, October 12 10 a.m. – noon to get the Youth garden ready for a long winters nap.  If you can donate an hour or two please join in the fun.  Wear garden gloves and footwear.  Tools and snacks will be provided.  For more information please contact TYG Coordinator, Sandie Benjamin, tgpyouthgarden@comcast.net  860-872-4830.