By Paula Meyer
ISU Communications & Marketing

       An Indiana State University community project is
growing a sense of community while helping fight hunger.
     Indiana State has provided land for expert and novice gardeners to plant 10 foot by 10 foot garden plots free of charge. In return, gardeners promise to tend to their plots, plant only annuals and refrain from using pesticides, herbicides and fungicides. Participants also are encouraged to donate a portion of the produce raised to the food pantryof their choice.
     "We're excited about this project in terms of what we're doing for the environment and raising awareness of hunger," said Nancy Brattain-Rogers, director of Indiana State's Center for Public Service and Community Engagement. "It also fits well with Indiana State's work on sustainability."
     Participants will gather Saturday, April 26 from 10 a.m. to noon to learn gardening basics and begin work on their plots. Rogers and John Etling of Catholic Charities Food Bank will speak during a brief ceremony.
     Rogers hopes to offer expert gardening advice through the help of volunteers and conduct weekly children's programs throughout the summer.
     "The project is multi-faceted," she said. "There are educational, social and physical fitness benefits for individuals as well as our community."
     Rogers anticipates up to 50 plots will be reserved for the garden's inaugural growing season, which runs from April 26 to Oct. 4. Garden plots are still available to individuals, families and organizations, she added.
     The garden, located at 217 N. 11th Street, is a collaborative effort by Indiana State's Facilities Management, the Center for Public Service and Community Engagement and several community partners including Purdue Extension, Sisters of Providence, White Violet Center, Catholic Charities of Terre Haute, Downtown Terre Haute, Inc., and the City of
Terre Haute.
     For more information about the Community Garden project or to reserve a plot, call (812) 237-2334 or send an email.

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