BELOIT—The Merrill Community Sharing Garden, a program of Community Action, Inc. (CAI), is doubling its growing potential in the Merrill Neighborhood thanks to a partnership with the Rock County Public Health Department.
While the garden typically grows 1,000 food producing plants, one lot is under-utilized due to a lack of water. The Health Department is using grant funds to install a water line in that area.
“Community gardens not only help increase access to healthy food, but they provide a great opportunity to connect with neighbors and build a sense of community,” states Katrina Harwood, Rock County Health Officer. “We are excited to be able to support the Merrill Community Sharing Garden in their effort to promote health and wellbeing.”
This summer, the health department also donated 34 signs in English and Spanish with pictures of the garden’s produce when it is ready to pick: three different ways to communicate the food available in garden beds and on fruit trees.
“Many people are used to seeing food in a grocery store, but it can be a lot harder to identify when it’s on a plant,” says Kaelyb Lokrantz, Merrill Community Sharing Garden Coordinator.
Close to 50% of the people who utilize the garden speak Spanish. The signs reduce the language barrier and increase neighbors’ independence when choosing fresh vegetables, fruits and herbs for their households.
“The Community Sharing Garden is such a vital component of our direct engagement with the Merrill Neighborhood”, says Marc Perry, CAI Executive Director.
“We are so appreciative of this gift from the Rock County Health Department. It will allow us to provide fresh produce and an outdoor learning space for years to come.”