Plant-A-Row Benefits Dexter-Area Neighbors in Need

Food Gatherers, a Washtenaw County-based food rescue agency and food bank, urges area gardeners to participate in the nationwide Plant-A-Row campaign this year.

Participants in Plant-A-Row, which is sponsored by the Garden Writers Association, grow a little extra produce to help feed neighbors in need. Plant-A-Row donations will be made to area food banks.

"In 2012, gardeners donated nearly 25,000 pounds of fresh, locally-grown produce, including more than 16,000 pounds from the Horticulture Program at Huron Valley Women's Correctional Facility!" according to the Food Gatherers' website.

One in seven adults and one in six children struggle with hunger in Washtenaw County, Food Gatherers reports.

The nonprofit encourages Plant-A-Row participants to grow the following most-needed types of produce.

• collards
• cauliflower
• cabbage
• cantaloupe
• broccoli
• carrots
• potatoes
• Roma tomatoes
• peppers
• winter squash

However, donations of any freshly picked fruits, vegetables or herbs are welcome, according to Food Gatherers.

Drop-offs can be made at the following times and locations.

• Food Gatherers' warehouse: 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Monday through Friday, with extended drop-off hours until 7 p.m. Wednesdays. 1 Carrot Way, Ann Arbor.
• English Gardens: 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. Monday through Saturday; 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sunday. 155 N. Maple Road, Ann Arbor.

Call 734-761-2796 or visit the Food Gatherers website for more information.