On a recent sunny morning, about 20 preschoolers got their hands dirty — for a good cause.
The North Shore’s Manna Project, which supports people facing food insecurity, launched a new garden at Temple Sinai on Community Road to grow fruits and vegetables for the Marblehead Food Pantry. The goal is to deliver 200 pounds of homegrown food twice a year.
The JCC preschoolers were there to help plant the first harvest — beets, radishes and spinach. The next planting, in the fall, will include tomatoes, cucumber, squash and mini-watermelons.
Teddy O’Brian, 4, said he loved getting his hands dirty in the garden beds. Asked about his favorite vegetables, he was noncommittal. Claire Corbett, also 4, said she was excited to see the fruits (or, in this case, vegetables) of her labor grow this summer. Her favorite fruits and veggies? Watermelon and carrots.
Temple Sinai Rabbi Michael Schwartz and Clifton Luthern Pastor Jim Bixby were there to help the eager young farmers.
“Imagine if all people were as excited about helping others. We can learn a lot from kids,” Schwartz said.
Bixby said more residents face food insecurity in the community than many people realize, adding that it can happen to anyone.
Anyone interested in volunteering with the Manna Project garden should contact Barbara at barbara.templesinai@gmail.com.
Editor Leigh Blander is an experienced TV, radio and print journalist.
