The Whatcom County Food Bank Farm is a project co-run by Growing Washington, Small Potatoes Gleaning Project and the Bellingham Food Bank, AKA, Alternatives to Hunger.  This project began in July 2007 and has already been successful at delivering nearly 2 tons of food to over 500 families who pass through the food bank each week.  With a full season ahead of us in 2008, and a strong jump on the season already occurring, we are hopeful about producing 10 tons of food for those in need this season.

The land, located between Bellingham and Lynden on the Guide Meridian, has been offered at a very low lease rate by the Cascade Christian Services, a non-profit Christian agency committed to the well-being and independence of the disabled population in Western Washington.  The farm offers 3 acres of cultivable land and 2 large greenhouses.  Though the farm is led by a staff member from Growing Washington and super-farmer Gretchen Hoyt, we could not attain our goals of production without volunteers generously giving their time.  So farm, our volunteers come from two primary sources: Home Port Learning Center, a transitional education program for adjudicated and at-risk youth in Whatcom County and Small Potatoes Gleaning Project.  Other volunteers include individuals who have actively sought out opportunities to positively affect change in their community. 

Volunteer opportunities exist for individuals or groups who wish to participate in this rewarding farm effort.  Although we are looking to fill time slots of 4 hours once a week, no one will be turned away – one-time or infrequent visits are welcome.  Tasks on the farm include composting, soil preparation, planting, weeding, harvesting and delivering the fruits of our labor to the food bank.  We welcome anyone to join us in this fun and satisfying effort to grow the freshest possible produce for those who often only get to eat the leftovers. 

Please, consider volunteering now at the Food Bank Farm.   Just send an email to Amaris Lunde with your contact information and availability.

Directions to the Farm:
The farm is conveniently located between Bellingham and Lynden.  Take the Guide Meridian north from Bellingham for approximately 8 miles.  You will pass Axton Road and then 4 Mile Creek.  On your left, you will see a large blue garage and two greenhouses.  Take a left onto King Tut Road.  Immediately on your left are a series of driveways.  You take the fourth driveway in, which is labeled St. Martin Place.  Follow the gravel driveway, looping to your left and park in the small parking lot next to the garage.

Want to learn more?
If you are interested in learning more about the Food Bank Farm please contact Amaris Lunde:
Amaris@growingwashington.org or (360) 927-1968.
    
Read more about the Food Bank Farm:
Our August article in the Capital Press