What’s happening?
New Westminster’s Plant a Row-Grow a Row program is having its 20th annual spring gardener’s party. Attendees will be able to find out how they can donate fresh, nutritious produce to the local Union Gospel Mission by planting an extra row in their gardens.
What’s on the evening’s agenda?
Claude LeDoux, who launched the program in New West 20 years ago, will host the event, which features a great lineup of speakers, including: Brian Minter (national spokesperson for Plant a Row-Grow a Row); Alex Augustyniak (West Coast Seeds); Conway Lum (GardenWorks); and June Hewko (Lee Valley Tools).
Why should I go?
In addition to learning about the Plant a Row-Grow a Row program, you’ll get some great gardening tips from inspiring and knowledgeable speakers, pick up some handouts and have a chance to win lots of gardening-related giveaways.
Is there anything new this year?
In an effort to raise awareness about growing food and the plight of some community members, organizers are encouraging parents to bring their kids to come to this year’s event.
“Growing food is a fun horticultural trend, and it’s a great family activity, especially when you can help kids learn about the importance of helping others at the same time” said a press release about the event. “You can grow vegetables and fruits in containers, in with your perennials or in your own community garden or backyard plot. You can even grow Tumbler tomatoes or strawberries in a hanging basket.”
Details, please:
The Plant a Row-Grow a Row spring gardeners’ party is on Thursday, March 14 at 6 p.m. at St. Thomas More Collegiate, just across the border at 7450 12th Ave. in Burnaby. Admission is free, but cash donations and donations of non-perishable food are appreciated.
How does Plant a Row-Grow a Row work?
From June to October, volunteers will be at St. Thomas More Collegiate on Sunday mornings to collect donations of fresh fruit and veggies (including store-bought produce) that will be taken to the Union Gospel Mission in New Westminster, where it will be used to make some tasty and nutritious meals for clients.
