Lynchburg Grows, which provides job training for the diable and organic food for the hungry and less fortnate, should flourish. The grassroots organization was inspired by The News & Advance’s thoughtful coverage of the garden destruction behind a group home where Paul Lam grew fresh vegetables for the residents.

An editorial published July 30 described the program well, but each week there is a new exciting demonstration of the unique spirit that defines Lynchburg Grows.

For example, in just the past two weeks, separately, young people from area foster homes and the Juvenile Detention Center have cleared and restored one of the greenhouses. After amending the soil from the “resources” of the Presbyterian Home Stables, they will begin planting healthy organic food. Eighty percent of their efforts will be donated. Eighty-five pounds have been donated just in the past two weeks to Daily Bread. This is in addition to the 700 community volunteers who have donated 6,000 hours to Lynchburg Grows. The program is strong.

The crux is the purchase of the 6-acre urban farm behind City Stadium (zoned industrial). More than $100,000 has been raised since April, but that is only a third of what is needed. Most grants do not give bricks and mortar, let alone property acquisition. This is an opportunity to make a real and lasting difference. By training the disabled and volunteers to grow organic food, Lynchburg Grows can be self-sufficient by selling less than half of this healthy food to the community. College and restaurant contracts are ready to go.

I am urging support for what will be the largest organic farm in the Mid-Atlantic - right here in Lynchburg - by sending a tax-free donation for the farm purchase to Lynchburg Grows, P.O. Box 12039, Lynchburg, VA 24506. Our families and community will be healthier and stronger.

DIANE M. WALKER
Community volunteer