What started as a patch of overgrown wild grasses is today, a thriving food garden committed to feeding a community.
Johannesburg, South Africa (07 February 2024) – Since 2021, the Charity Begins With Me food garden has been a growing project that has taught many people, valuable lessons in growing food and given the charity access to “free” produce to share with children and families in need.
The food garden has faced its challenges, but is always a triumphant project for all involved. Children are able to take nutrient-dense foods home to share with their families. Currently, the garden is filled with an abundant supply of melons, corn and squash.
“Imagine trying to establish a vegetable garden big enough to feed an entire community when you don’t have any running water!!
We did it.
Well, sort of.
I am so proud of the hard work that we have put into this project.”
Charity Begins With Me’ started as a feeding scheme to feed children every Sunday. Founder Stephen Ferreira started by feeding 50 children, but it grew to more than 400 every Sunday over time. The non-profit has since grown into a fully-fledged organisation that supports and uplifts an entire community.
Stephan Ferreira was diagnosed with Leukemia several years ago now, but he refused to let the diagnosis destroy his life! Instead, he decided to spend the rest of his life dedicated to making the world a better place for the less fortunate. Stephen believes strongly in giving a hand up and not a handout.
This means that everyone that benefits from the charity’s work, gives back in one way or another. People can also volunteer for the charity, and the community is working hard to make a beautiful food garden.
The food garden has started thriving, but they are in need of colder-season vegetables to start planning their winter garden. Naturally, any seeds are welcome, but if you need some inspiration, take a look below. You can find out how to send seeds to the community food garden here.
Some examples of seeds you can donate that will go far are as follows:
- Swiss Chard
- Cabbage
- Pumpkins
- Carrots
- Peas
- Beetroot
- Onions
- Garlic
- Turnips
- Spring Onions
- Kale
- Broccoli
- Radish
by 