Quad Cities gardening program collects nearly 65,000 pounds of fresh produce for local food pantries

DAVENPORT, Iowa (KWQC) – A spring initiative to provide fresh produce to Quad City area families in need exceeded expectations this growing season.

The GIFT Gardens program, launched in April, collected nearly 65,000 pounds of donated fresh produce. The program had set an initial goal of 5,000 pounds.

GIFT stands for Growing Illowa Food Together. The groups behind the program asked gardeners to grow and donate fresh produce to be distributed to food pantries and shelters.

“We know the potential we have to help nourish our neighbors and build community around gardening and food and so it’s exciting,” said Emily Swihart, University of Illinois Extension.

The program is a collaboration between the Iowa State and Illinois Extensions, Tapestry Farms, and the River Bend Food Bank.

“It’s just one of those things that you’re helping the community and addressing a need that is so great out there now, more than ever,” said Dave Phillips, Asbury Methodist Church garden ministry.

Organizers said they hope the program can keep growing and provide even more fresh produce next year.