HAMPSTEAD — The Kiwanis Club of Topsail Island, Surf City Rotary Club, and Share the Table annnounced Friday they have received a $10,000 grant from the Kiwanis Children’s Fund to be used to establish the Greater Topsail Area Community Garden in Hampstead.
The garden project’s goal is to grow and harvest fresh produce for Share the Table, which feeds neighbors in need in Pender and Onslow Counties. The project leveraged community volunteer leadership for the garden.
The funds will be allocated toward essential infrastructure and resources for the community garden, including constructing raised garden beds, a greenhouse, and irrigation systems and procuring high-quality seeds and
plants.
With the support of the Kiwanis Children’s Fund, this project aims to create a sustainable solution to meet the nutritional needs of families and individuals who struggle to access fresh, healthy food options. Community members will be able collaborate with each other and learn about sustainable garden practices and environmental stewardship.
“We are thrilled to partner with Share the Table and receive this grant from Kiwanis Children’s Fund,” Cathi Litcher, community garden director, said in a press release. “The Greater Topsail Area Garden will address the pressing issue of food
insecurity in our region and empower our community members to take an active role in their health and nutrition. Together, we can significantly impact our neighbor’s healthy food choices.”
Future educational programs and workshops will be offered through Share the Table to guide individuals in food selection, preservation, and healthy cooking practices.
“We are extremely grateful to the Kiwanis Children’s Fund for their generous grant,” Dawn Ellis, Founder, and Executive Director of Share the Table, said in the release. “Through this collaboration, we will create an inclusive space that brings our community together while promoting food security and healthy fresh produce choices.”
Surf City Rotary Club President Hugh Hawthorne added the “rotary club members are excited about this opportunity to serve and grow needed food while enjoying healthful outdoor activity.”
Infrastructure for the garden will be complete this summer, and planting will begin in the fall.
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