Community Resources for Individuals & Families in Need

Dear Benson Community Garden Friends and Visitors,

After thorough consideration, we have made the difficult decision to remove the food pantry box that has stood outside the garden. This decision was made with deep contemplation and understanding of its impact on our community.

Initially, the food pantry box was created and implemented by another organization, which approached us with the idea. We were honored to host the pantry, recognizing it as an opportunity to extend our garden’s role in community support. Unfortunately, the organization that managed the pantry has since dissolved and is no longer operational. This development, combined with other challenges, prompted us to reevaluate the sustainability of the pantry box at our location.

Over time, we have observed a decrease in donations, which has made it challenging to maintain an adequate supply for those in need. Additionally, there have been concerns with perishable and expired foods being donated. Such items, while given with the best of intentions, pose health risks and are not suitable for consumption.

Our community garden has always been a beacon of growth, sharing, and unity. It is with these values in mind that we have decided to prioritize the health and safety of our community by discontinuing the food pantry box.

Despite this change, our commitment to supporting and caring for our community remains unwavering. To address the needs of those who relied on the pantry, we have dedicated this page on our website to resources for finding nearby food pantries and other assistance. This effort is part of our ongoing mission to ensure that everyone in our community has access to the support they need.

We understand this may be a disappointment to some, and we want to assure you that this decision was made with great care and concern for the well-being of our community members. The garden remains a place of welcome, growth, and support, and we invite you to join us as we continue to explore new ways to contribute positively to our community.

With sincere compassion and solidarity,

The Benson Community Garden Team