Grow More, Give More
As the United States celebrates its 250th anniversary, the Alabama Cooperative Extension System is honoring this historic milestone by inviting gardeners across the state to make a difference through the Grow More, Give More 250 Pound Challenge. Rooted in the same spirit of service, innovation, and community that has shaped the nation for the last two and a half centuries, this challenge aims to help the approximately 2 million Alabama residents who face food insecurity.
Extension’s Goal: From Memorial Day through Labor Day, at least 250 pounds of fresh produce will be donated and recorded in all 67 Alabama counties
Your Challenge: Help Extension reach its goal by growing extra fruits and vegetables to donate to people in your community.
How to Participate
This challenge is open to everyone, from gardening pros to those still establishing their green thumb. The challenge runs May 25 (Memorial Day) through September 7 (Labor Day).
1. Plant and Grow with Purpose
As you plan this year’s growing efforts, dig an extra row or have a few extra pots to grow produce specifically to donate and record through Grow More, Give More.
2. Harvest and Donate
As the crops come in, weigh the produce that you plan to donate and keep record of the poundage. Then, donate your fresh produce somewhere in your community. You can donate to a local food bank, place of worship, community kitchen, food pantry, or even a family member or neighbor.
3. Record Your Donation
Each time you donate during the challenge period (May 25 through September 7), record the pounds of produce that you gave. Visit aces.edu/go/givemore or click the button below to record donations.
Gardening Support from Extension
Need some ideas on what to grow? Some great options for this challenge include beans, squash, zucchini, cucumbers, peppers, tomatoes, Southern peas, and okra. While there are many other growing options, these crops are some of the hardiest and best-producing vegetables.
Need a little more gardening help? Alabama Extension has research-based guidance to help you Grow More so you can Give More. Including publications, supply lists, growing cards, and videos—Extension experts have compiled a great group of resources that can help boost your growing potential. Find these resources at aces.edu/go/growmore or by clicking the button below.
Whatever and wherever you choose to donate, thank you for making a difference!
Celebrating 250 Years of Community
The Grow More, Give More 250 Pound Challenge represents Alabama Extension’s longstanding commitment to serving others. By being a part of the challenge, residents across the state can strengthen their communities and ensure that more families have access to fresh, nutritious produce.
The challenge is an effort in support of America250 at Auburn University, a yearlong celebration commemorating the 250th anniversary of the signing of the Declaration of Independence. Throughout the year, Auburn will engage the public through a series of events and activities that highlights the university’s commitment to open inquiry, rigorous scholarship, and thoughtful engagement. More information and listings of upcoming activities are available at auburn.edu/academic/provost/america250/.
More Information
For more information on this challenge, contact the Alabama Extension home horticulture agent in your area. You can find who that is and their contact information in the directory at aces.edu.