| Solid Rock Garden... Growing the best food possible for our tables and our neighbors |
M.A. Andrews
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She had thought about it for four years. During that time she researched community gardens and organic gardening techniques. Her name is Julie Weathers. Julie’s desire was to feed people the best food possible and build relationships. Most people in need usually get canned goods or leftovers. She felt that they should have healthy food. A classified ad this past January started it all. From that small ad big things began to happen.
Julie Weathers may be the founder of the garden, but she continually gives credit to all those who have joined and believe in this project. Others she can’t thank enough are the people who gave of their time and worked hard to build the garden. Also, Ruby and Robert from Ruby’s Discount Store who gave all the lumber to build the beds. It is amazing that once aware of the purpose, people continually contributed to help make this dream a reality.
Meetings were held and out of four possible locations available, the one that was picked was in Lawndale on the grounds of the Upper Cleveland County Rescue Squad. Today, after building 20 raised garden beds, there are vegetables growing everywhere. The only requirement for participation was that anyone or any family that wanted a plot, would give a percentage of their crops to the needy. Some are donating up to 50% and some donate it all. The fresh vegetables are being taken to U.C.A.N. (Upper Cleveland Area Needs). People in need are now getting fresh vegetables, grown organically and locally.
The community garden began with a step of faith and because it is faith based, it has been aptly named “Solid Rock Garden”. When asked how well the project is going, Julie says: “I think it’s awesome! Like minded people coming together to do not just good, but to do the right thing. I’m sort of overwhelmed.” Her husband Jeff has been very supportive and involved in the garden and the sign Julie designed was built by Jeff’s father, Donald with recycled materials. It stands to let the community know what is going on at the site.
Although they got a late start, the garden beds are producing. Squash, cucumbers and tomatoes are coming in now. Okra, corn, zucchini, green beans, peppers and more will be harvested soon. Things are going so well that plans are now being formulated for this fall and next year’s gardens. In August they will plant beets and turnips. The group has also tossed around the idea of planting grain crops.
Julie says: “It is beautiful to see the relationships growing as well as the vegetables. We are all getting connected with each other and where our food comes from.” For anyone interested in participating in this and future gardens you may email Julie at solidrockgarden@gmail.com.
“A generous man will prosper; he who refreshes others will himself be refreshed.” Proverbs 11:25
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