For the past six years, Plant a Row for the Hungry volunteers have collected and distributed fresh produce in Story County. Farmers’ market vendors, the Iowa State University Horticulture Research Station and home gardeners donated locally-grown produce that went to Assault Care Center Extending Shelter and Support, Bethesda Community Food Pantry, Food at First [First United Methodist Church community meals] and Mid-Iowa Community Action Food Pantry.

This year Plant a Row volunteers are asking the Story County community to help in the effort to provide nutritious locally-grown produce to these four agencies.

On the second and fourth Saturdays beginning June 12, shoppers at the North Grand Farmers’ Market can purchase produce to donate or they can contribute cash to purchase produce most needed by the four agencies.

Volunteers from ACCESS, Food at First and the two food pantries, as well as community residents, will be at a table at the farmers’ market to accept donations. People can also send checks made out to Story County PAR to Reiman Gardens, 1407 University Blvd., Ames 50011.

Plant a Row volunteers will accept clean, quality fruits and vegetables from home gardeners 7 – 8:30 a.m. Mondays, June 14 through September 20 at the Reiman Gardens maintenance building.

Last year the Story County Plant a Row effort collected and distributed 4,209 pounds of fresh produce. This year’s goal is to top 5,000 pounds.

With the help of the entire community, we hope to increase distribution so low-income residents can have more nutritious and healthy foods in a state known for rich soil and quality food production.