The Boyertown Area Multi-Service partnered with MSTAR Church to create and maintain a community garden for the 2025 growing season.
“This collaborative initiative reflects both organizations’ shared commitment to addressing food insecurity and promoting community wellness, especially at a time when state programs that support pantries have projected that resources for food and other critical services may decrease by as much as 20%,” the social service agency said in an announcement.
The project was initiated and sponsored by a Boyertown family.
“Thanks to overwhelming support from the community, what began as a modest garden vision grew into a vibrant 3,600-square-foot space, with a diverse array of over 800 crops,” stated the agency.
This achievement was made possible through the partnership and contributions of Frecon Farms, Holt & Bugbee Hardwood, Montco Fence, Premier Fleet Services, Wendy’s Flowers & Garden Centers and private family donations.
“The garden is firmly grounded in inspiring a lifelong dedication to service among the children in our community,” the Multi-Service said.
This spring, the children of MSTAR Church were invited to take an active role in providing food for neighbors in need. More than 100 enthusiastic MSTAR Youth, ages 4-13, came together to germinate over 1,000 seedlings and later returned to plant them in the garden beds.
“Their joy, sense of purpose and commitment to both the project and their neighbors have been truly contagious and deeply inspiring,” said the agency. “The garden has been aptly named Tiny Hands Garden as a tribute to their hard work, and a reminder of their incredible ability to help those in need.”
All produce harvested from the garden will be donated directly to Preston’s Pantry at the Boyertown Area Multi-Service on Spring Street in Boyertown. The fresh fruits and vegetables will be made available to local families and individuals in need, ensuring greater access to nutritious, locally grown food.
Volunteers from both organizations — as well as community members — are invited to help maintain, harvest and deliver produce from the garden. This hands-on involvement offers a unique opportunity for residents to make a direct impact on neighbors in need.
To get involved or follow the garden’s progress, visit the Preston’s Pantry Project Facebook page at facebook.com/PrestonsPantry/.
Boyertown Area Multi-Service is a social service agency dedicated to meeting needs and improving the lives of people in the Boyertown Area School District and surrounding communities of Amity, District, Hereford, Pike and Oley townships.
MSTAR Church is a loving community of Jesus-followers helping one another build faith-filled foundations, thriving lives and flourishing futures.