JFS Urban Community Garden Takes Root

On May 25, the JFS staff began work on their new Urban Community Garden, helped by an eager group of middle school students. Located directly outside JFS headquarters in Elizabeth, the garden currently contains a variety of tomatoes, cucumbers, peppers, and squash. The fresh produce is being delivered in our monthly Food Pantry packages, to the homebound elderly, clients on the Friend Advocate Program, and Kosher Meals on Wheels recipients. The JFS Urban Community Garden will not only supplement our food programs, but provide healthier food to JFS's clients. It has also increased opportunities for Jewish Family service volunteers.

 

The funding for the JFS Urban Community Garden came from a grant from Philips Bayway 66 Refinery, and assistance from Groundwork Elizabeth, a nonprofit organization that seeks to improve urban landscapes by encouraging communities to improve the environment. Representatives from Groundwork Elizabeth assisted in planning the garden, providing plants and valuable information about soil conditions and mulch.
If you would like to help out with the garden, please contact Elie Bodner, Volunteer Coordinator at: 908-352-8375, ebodner@jfscentralnj.org.