Here’s a fresh approach to bringing locally-grown fruits and vegetables to older folks who may lack access: a free Senior Nutrition and Produce Event this Saturday, Nov. 21.
Family Agriculture Resource Management Services (F.A.R.M.S.) has partnered with social service and advocacy groups to reach out to low-income seniors whom may not have transportation – or the resources – to obtain the greens, beans, and other garden bounty some of us may take for granted.
The event will be held at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Here’s how it will work: The produce is being supplied by area African-American farmers. Only people age 60 and up and currently receiving supplemental nutrition benefits known as SNAP will be served from 10 – 11 a.m., and must bring proof of their benefits. After 11 a.m., anyone in that age group will be eligible to receive produce (limited to one donation per person).
Jillian Hishaw, F.A.R.M.S. founder, explains, “All farmers who grow for our program are paid market price for their produce, which is donated to the food banks. We work primarily with small farmers located in high-poverty counties in the Carolinas and Georgia.”
Cooking demonstrations and info about nutrition will be offered as well. Hishaw is asking the public to help get the word out to seniors, and to provide transportation as well.
The free produce event is only one small part of F.A.R.M.S.’s work. The group advocates for farmers suffering land loss and other economic challenges.
The event will take place Saturday, Nov. 21, 10 a.m. – 2 p.m. at Clinton Chapel AME Zion Church, 319 Whitehaven Rd., Charlotte, NC 28208 at the intersection of 1901 Rozzelles Ferry Rd. For more information, visit www.30000acres.org.
