The FCS Financial Rural Community and Agriculture Foundation recently granted $7,500 to Lily’s House in Bates County to provide assistance with their new community garden project. Lily’s House is a safe place where resources are provided for women and children who are in crisis.
The garden began this year as part of the Give Back Project for two Lily’s House graduates. With the help of the women from Lily's House and many volunteers, 12 raised beds have been constructed and filled. Additionally, irrigation has been installed. Lily’s House intends to sell annual memberships to continue the project each year.
“The community garden will be a great way for the women of Lily’s House to learn about building community relationships, giving back to the community they live in, and social responsibility,” says Sara Vick, Lily’s House Executive Director. “In building community relationships, we anticipate that this garden will be a hope and help to people in the community who may be experiencing poverty, hunger, and depression and anxiety.”
Community gardens have shown to build strong communities. Lily’s House garden will partner with schools to visit and learn about the benefits of food sustainability and responsibility, as well as collaborate with local growers to teach the students how to source sustainable food. Plans to teach workshops on canning or baking are being considered.
“FCS Financial is a cooperative owned by farmers and ranchers. We value being a part of the process that provides food for the world,” says David Janish, FCS Financial CEO. “According to Feeding America, 87% of counties with the highest food insecurity rate are rural. Community gardens like the one at Lily’s House is another avenue to address this issue and serve those most in need.”
Lily’s House had helped 29 women and 69 children to date and are currently at full capacity. Recently, they purchased a home close to the shelter to begin a transitional housing program for their residents. To learn more about Lily’s House visit www.lilyshouse.org.
The FCS Financial Rural Community and Agriculture Foundation represents the cooperative’s long-term commitment to a thriving and prosperous agricultural industry and our rural communities. The Foundation focuses on targeted, long-term investments. Additional information and an application are available on our website or by emailing marketing@myfcsfinancial.com.
