The food growing season comes to a close at the Ronald McDonald House® (RMH) near Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital. In their second year of partnership, The GardenWorks Project, a local 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization improving food security and food access throughout western Chicagoland, with the financial support of the Tony Reyes Family Foundation, has brought a new approach to fresh food access and health and wellness to the Winfield community.
In this second gardening season, The GardenWorks Project planted vegetables at RMH near Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital for the purposes of improving food access for families residing on site, creating therapeutic activities for families and staff, and providing gardening education as a source of recreation. Beans, tomatoes, basil and more grew all season, nurtured and harvested by The GardenWorks Project board member, Bill Waters, and programs associate, Jackie Pierucci.
Local registered dietitian and owner of The Garden Plate, Mary Zupke, regularly harvests and cooks these vegetables with the kids residing at the house. “I love seeing their little faces light up when they pluck a tomato” notes Zupke, who helps the young chefs incorporate fresh basil and tomatoes into mini caprese skewers, quesadillas, or strawberry shortcake. “The kids have enjoyed seeing where their foods grow and how to use them in the kitchen. I love how The GardenWorks Project highlights how simple gardening can be!”
Samantha Schmidt, Manager of Family Services at RMH near Northwestern Medicine Central DuPage Hospital, reflects on the many benefits the gardens have brought to families. Schmidt notes that the gardens have provided a healthy recreation opportunity for the kids to enjoy, a tranquil space for parents, and a fun opportunity for Meals from the Heart volunteers. “RMH near CDH is very grateful! We look forward to picking and planting new items for next season!”
Proud supporters of the Ronald McDonald House Charities® of Chicagoland & Northwest Indiana (RMHC-CNI) mission to help children and families get better together and access high-quality care, The Tony Reyes Family Foundation generously granted funding for a 3-year garden project. The GardenWorks Project is grateful to the Tony Reyes Family Foundation for their support in expanding fresh food access and wellness in Winfield.
GardenWorks relies on volunteers, donors, and corporate sponsors to fulfill its mission to improve food security and well-being for our neighbors. Learn how you can get involved on our website or follow us on social media.