Red Deer Food Bank and Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints partner on hydroponic project

Food Bank Growing Produce | Red Deer Advocate |

IMAGE: Red Deer Food Bank’s hydroponic program is producing fresh produce for clients. (Photo contributed by Red Deer Food Bank

Hydroponic food is growing at the Red Deer Food Bank thanks to a $75,000 grant from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints.

The donation allowed the food bank to purchase a hydroponic sea can, which is now growing fresh produce for the food bank’s hamper program.

“This is a big leap forward for the Red Deer Food Bank, as we can now offer a consistent supply of fresh produce to our clients,” said Mitch Thomson, food bank executive director, in a statement. 

“We receive limited amounts of fresh produce from our grocery partners. Outside of harvest time, it has been extremely difficult for us to provide enough fresh produce to our clients. The development of our hydroponic food production initiatives and greenhouse allow us to be more self sufficient in providing healthy food options for our clientele.”

The food bank purchased the hydroponic business from Mike and Lisa Slimmon of Green Euphoria.

Currently, one hydroponic sea can produce 400 heads of lettuce per week. At capacity, about 1,000 to 1,500 heads of lettuce per month will be available with both sea cans.

This winter season, the food bank is producing lettuce and tomatoes in its hydroponics section and cabbage, carrots, spinach, and kale out of the greenhouse. There are plans to start growing peppers, bok choy, Swiss chard, and strawberries in the future. A possible expansion under consideration is the addition of mushroom production.

The tomato farm supports 2,688 tomato plants, all in different life stages. Once plants start producing, about 20,000 cherry tomatoes a month will be ready for the hamper program.

Samantha Paterson, greenhouse manager at the food bank, said with the rising costs of produce like lettuce becoming more expensive, there is a concern that people cannot get a more balanced diet.

“These programs are in place because we saw an issue with the lack of healthy, nutritious foods in the hampers we provide to the community we serve. We aim to aid people in getting access to fruits and veggies,” Paterson said. 

The food bank said the grant from The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints was the latest of its many endeavours to support the food bank over the past 40 years. 

“Partnerships like these make our mission to alleviate hunger and improve well-being for the community that much more achievable. We truly appreciate the participation and engagement from our local community to make our work possible,” Thomson said. 

Original Article: https://www.reddeeradvocate.com/local-news/red-deer-food-bank-and-church-of-jesus-christ-of-latter-day-saints-partner-on-hydroponic-project-7732724

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