Gearing up for the Giving Garden

It's spring, when a gardener's thoughts turn to ... squash, and peppers, and cilantro, and tomatoes.

And as long as you're thinking along those lines, how about adding just a few more plants? Then, when your fruits and veggies ripen, give the produce from those extras to area food pantries.

Nearly 50 food pantries in five counties participate in the Daily Herald's Giving Garden program, which channels fresh produce directly to folks who need it most: those who can't afford to put food on the table.

The program this year will start July 3 and continue through Sept. 30. During that time, we'll tell you where to drop off your produce, and we'll share stories about folks who are gardening right along with you to help their neighbors.

So pick up some extra plants - and join us in sharing the bounty.