The Giving Garden was founded in 2009 after a member of the Franklin First United Methodist Church (FUMC) asked the pastor if he could use a section of the of the church’s land to show kids how pumpkins are grown. Noone anticipated it would lead to a thriving garden that produces food for more than 5,000 people weekly. Today the Giving Garden sits on six acres of the land and grows everything from turnip greens to potatoes.
“We produce and distribute to our distribution partners, approximately 40,000 pounds of vegetables annually,” says Gary Markham, the chair of the Giving Garden board.
The Giving Garden grows and harvests a lot of produce, but it also has a close relationship with the farmers from the Franklin Farmer’s Market. Partnerships with organizations such as the Nashville Food Project, the Branch of Nashville, Meals on Wheels, and the Well Outreach help ensure food is distributed to those in need in Nashville and in Williamson and Maury counties.
The church also started the Giving Garden On The Go. “We take the food directly to the people living with food insecurity,” says Jody Todd, the Director of Marketing and Communications at Franklin FUMC. “Sometimes food insecurity is not just about not having enough food - we can meet the needs of hunger and friendship.”
The garden has become an important mission of the church and is operated entirely by volunteers, many from the City Service Mission, but all are welcome. “It is like an open door,” explains Jody, “we accept people in all different areas in their life.” In essence, the garden grows food, and feeds the soul. “The Giving Garden brings smiles to those who work in the garden and to those who receive from it,” says Gary.
It is a great reminder that through giving, we receive.
FranklinFirstUMC/Garden.org