By Joe Bachman

Want to help your community? Consider planting your very own garden.

For Growing Friends Community Gardens (GFCG) in Wisconsin Rapids, gardening isn’t only a hobby for many, but a way to help others in the community. Started in 2013, the gardens was a way to help educate others in their gardening interests.

However, with a community over 100 members, including all walks of life from master gardeners to city officials, the garden doesn’t just adhere to the interests of those involved. According to founder Laura Lokken, they have also helped many families in need since the group’s inception.

(Courtesy Laura Lokken)

“Since we’ve started we’ve helped at least a hundred families,” said Lokken. “If they receive government assistance at all, they can garden for free.”

The charge for your own garden comes at a low cost of only $10 dollars per year, and two hours of volunteer time.

Growing Friends Community Gardens is also partners with the Family Center, Incourage, Riverview Hospital, First Congregational Church, and the Neighborhood Table. This year, GFCG has donated over 400 pounds of food to the Neighborhood Table food pantry.

“This is a great thing to get involved with because it’s not only good for your health, and your family’s heath, as you’re growing your own fresh produce — but you can donate your extra produce,” said Lokken. “It’s a great way to help the community — and beautifies the community.”

Those interested can instantly become a gardener, volunteer, or just a donor by visiting their Facebook page by visiting https://www.facebook.com/groups/350679258334028/members/

GFCG is always taking donations of gently used gardening tools, and is looking to expand their activities and location. For more information please email [email protected]