Seasonal giving came early this year as the Armstrong Garden Club distributed funds to support local food initiatives and community programs.
“Thanks to the community, we had a successful plant sale this past May. We’re using the funds we’ve raised to support others in the community that could use a helping hand,” says Glenn Gytenbeek, President of the Armstrong and District Garden Club.
About one in five children experience food insecurity so by providing funds to the Armstrong Food Bank and the Good Fox Box, the Garden Club is helping to provide a consistent, healthy supply of food to families in the community. “We will be purchasing food and providing Christmas hampers for families in need,” says Jennifer Ciccone of the Armstrong Food Bank. “We’re able to provide more Armstrong families with the monthly Good Fox Box,” adds Louise Burton of the Good Food Box Program.
In addition to food programs, the Club provided funds to the Armstrong Community Gardens to help them provide more garden plots behind Glad Tidings Church. “More garden plots means that more residents can grow their own food,” explains Rea Smith, Community Gardens co-ordinator.
Funds were also given to support Communities in Bloom Society which will allow the group to enhance the livability of Armstrong. “Our society supports initiatives that help our town bloom – whether by beautifying a neighbourhood or by making our community more welcoming to residents and visitors alike,” says Shirley Fowler, a City Councillor and Society co-ordinator.
Funds provided to Pleasant Valley Manor will purchase a new raised garden bed and outdoor pots which residents will help to care for, explains Candace Hitch, Recreation coordinator for the Manor.
Two bursaries have also been allocated for Pleasant Valley Secondary School for students pursuing post secondary education in a field related to agriculture, environmental science, forestry, or similar disciplines. “The bursaries we receive will help increase accessibility to post secondary school for our graduates,” shares Steve Drapala, principal of PVSS.
Armstrong Garden Club is planning to hold another plant sale in May of 2023.
For more information on the Armstrong Garden Club or to find out about how you can join, visit: http://armstronggardenclub.com.
For more information: Glenn Gytenbeek (250) 546-9891
