WAPAKONETA — The social justice collaborative Fields of Justice is encouraging local gardeners to plant extra crops this year to donate them to a local food pantry.
Plant a Row for the Hungry programs exist across the United States. Plant a Row is organized locally by Fields of Justice. The group includes individuals and representatives of parish families in the northern part of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati. Its efforts serve people of all faiths.
There are four local pantries participating in Plant a Row. It is encouraged to call the food pantry before dropping off donations:
• Celina — CALL Food Pantry, 420 N. Brandon Ave. Call 419-586-3574;
• St. Marys — Agape, 120 E. Spring St. Call 419-394-8700;
• Wapakoneta — God’s Storehouse, 105 W. Pearl St. Call 419-738-7456;
• Wapakoneta — Mercy Unlimited, 38 E. Auglaize St. Call 419-738-3161.
Tips for donating to local food pantries
• If you have a large amount of produce, call in advance to let the food bank know you are coming;
• No rotten produce — if you can’t eat it, pantry clients cannot eat it;
• Offer only good quality, freshly picked produce to food pantries;
• Handle fresh fruits and vegetables safely to minimize the risk of foodborne illness;
• Don’t mix produce types. Keep each type in separate, clean containers or bags;
• Clean as much mud and dirt as possible off of the produce you plan to donate;
• Choose produce without mold, spoilage, bruising, or insects.
For more information, contact Rachel Barber at 419-738-4924.
