The 5th Annual Westchester Garden Walk on Saturday, July 22nd, was a smashing success. The weather could not have been better for garden enthusiasts to enjoy 6 distinct, yet equally beautiful, gardens. The Grassroots Garden Club broke records yet again, raising even more funds than were raised last year, continuing the trend of increasing the donation amount every year. After adding up ticket sales, raffle sales, donations, and sponsorships, a check was presented the pantry’s Executive Director, Amanda Grant, with the proceeds from the walk. A staggering $6,300!
The Westchester Food Pantry serves as a resource throughout the year for those who are hungry and food insecure. Supported by the generous donations and work of the community – residents, organizations, and businesses – the pantry is able to supplement food needs in the Village of Westchester and in several neighboring communities. Run entirely by volunteers, with not even the executive officers pulling a salary, the Pantry is truly a labor of love.
In 2022, the Pantry served 4,895 client households, or approximately 16,000 individuals. This represents a 65% increase over 2021; a 20% increase over 2020 (‘the height of the pandemic’) and an 85% increase over 2019. Their clients were provided with 183 tons of food, which equates to about 300,000 meals, at a retail value of nearly $1.8 million. Each client received over $350 worth of groceries, every time they came to the Pantry. Learn more here.
Since its inception, Grassroots Garden Group’s community fundraising efforts for the pantry have raised over $28,000. In addition to their annual Westchester Garden Walk, they raise funds for the pantry at their annual seedling sale, held every May at the corner of Cermak and Mannheim.
THANK YOU to the Grassroots Garden Club members, this year’s walk sponsors, homeowners, attendees, and volunteers once again— YOU made this event a success. With $6,300, the pantry can provide nearly 19,000 meals!
Learn more about the Grassroots Garden Club by visiting their website at https://www.grassrootsgardengroup.org/.
