Brandon Twp.- During World War II, President Franklin D. Roosevelt encouraged Americans to plant ‘Victory Gardens? to supplement their incomes and the food supply during a time of rationing.
Dale and Ginnie Richmond remember that time clearly. Their families and their neighbors all participated. Now, in a recession that is the worst in 74-year-old Dale’s memory, they are preparing to plant another Victory Garden? to ease the suffering of their neighbors.
‘I’ve always been a gardener,? said Dale. ‘When I was younger, I didn’t have a choice. I haven’t gardened in recent years, but we’re going to do it to satisfy Pastor Tim.?
‘Pastor Tim? is Tim Dibble, pastor of the Ortonville United Methodist Church. Dibble is urging members of his congregation, as well as residents of the community as a whole, to grow produce this summer to give to the Ortonville Community Emergency Fund food pantry.
‘Instead of listening to how bad the economy is, get out, plant tomatoes,? said Dibble. ‘You may not have money to give, but if you have land, you can plant and give vegetables to people who have none.?
Ginnie Richmond, 78, plans to grow tomatoes, green beans, beets, and potatoes in their victory garden. She already has some perennial plants that are ready to go, including lovage (an herb that tastes similar to celery), elephant garlic, horseradish, and rhubarb.
‘Gardening is a lot of work, but it’s fun,? said Ginny. ‘I enjoy it.?
Dibble says it need not be a huge effort if the community works together.
‘Imagine if each kid had their own potted tomato plant to tend,? he said.
‘You could have one plant in a pot, or your own personal garden to share with OCEF. It’s a great way to get kids involved. Do what you can. You don’t have to change your lifestyle, but you could change someone else’s life.?
Dibble is looking forward to seeing a variety of fresh, healthy food donated to OCEF and families in need in the community.
‘Growing things isn’t hard, it’s just hard to make money at it,? he said. ‘But we’re giving it away.?
Details: Tim Dibble at ortonvilleumc@yahoo.com or call 248-627-3125.