Fisher Outreach Expands Garden for 6th Year of Free Markets Serving 150 Seniors

1 articles · Updated · Shaw Local News Network · May 17

Home Depot-backed expansion of Fisher Outreach Group’s Crystal Lake garden will boost produce for the nonprofit’s sixth year of free farmers markets serving low-income seniors in Woodstock.
150 seniors are served at each market, but founder Jacci Richards said the larger garden still will not produce enough food for all residents who rely on the program.
Walden and La Bella residents receive vegetables and fruit directly because many struggle to reach food pantries and face rising grocery costs, making the July-to-September markets a key food source.
$25 Adopt a Grandparent sponsorships, cash gifts and fresh-produce donations are now being sought to fund container gardens and stock the markets with both fresh and shelf-stable items.

With millions in federal aid available, why are small volunteer groups a senior's last line of defense against hunger?

Beyond providing food, do free farmers markets restore a sense of choice and dignity that food boxes can’t?