Rooting for neighbors in need

BRITTANY SPIEKER

Food, nutrition and health extension educator

The most recent Feeding America data indicates Antelope County has 780 individuals that are food insecure. Food insecurity is not having regular access to safe and healthy foods that allow every person to live an active, healthy life. With these staggering numbers in mind, it's important to think about ways to support our neighbors in need. Fortunately, there are several ways you can help fight hunger this year.

Produce Rescue: Did your garden produce exceptionally well and you're at a loss with what to do with all your extra cucumbers? Is your pear tree so full of fruit that you could never make enough pear crisps in your lifetime to use them all? Donate your excess produce. This reduces food waste and gets your produce in the hands of someone who needs it. It's a win win. Grow-A-Row: Have a little extra space in your garden and looking to fill it with a good cause? Grow an extra row of produce in your garden and donate that harvest.

Donation Garden: Looking to level up your community involvement? Volunteer in the donation garden! SNAP-Ed grant funding was received through the Growing Together Nebraska project to support the fight against hunger. Antelope County Extension, in partnership with the City of Neligh and local extension master gardeners, started a donation garden in Neligh. We would be ecstatic for you to be part of this inaugural year.

No matter the mode you decide to give back, produce donations will be given to the Antelope County Food Pantry to support their mission in closing the meal gap. If you or someone you know needs food, the food pantry is open the first and third Thursdays of each month from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at the Neligh Lion's Club.

Interested in donating produce or volunteering in the donation garden? Contact Brittany Spieker with the Antelope County Extension Office at 402-887-5414 or [email protected].

Follow the excitement by joining our Facebook Page! To find us, type "Growing Together Antelope County" into the search bar or use the QR code.