Hesed House has an on-site permanent supportive housing program for 12 of the most chronically homeless individuals. Last summer, one resident began a make-shift garden from a
few old planter boxes and pots.
At the beginning of this summer, a group from UMCG came to Hesed House with a vision – a vision of hope, to provide a REAL garden for residents and wow, did they deliver. Over a few weekends, 4 squares of new soil, mulch path, plants and flowers were planted.
The garden is more than any at Hesed could have imagined. Not only are plants thriving, but so are the residents. The garden has brought this group of 12 diverse Harbor residents into community. One Harbor resident purchased some plants which he excitedly showed others and staff what he had found to add to the garden. Another resident has purchased little figurines
from the Dollar Store. Everyone takes great joy in seeing the garden grow and change and they
have already used some of the produce in meals.
The very act of planting a garden is an act of faith. We put a seed into soil and have faith that over time, the seed will sprout and grow.
Gardens need seed, water and sun – along with a dash of faith – and a dash of hope. We plant in faith and then hope for harvest.
UMCG has given both the gifts of faith and hope to the Harbor Residents at Hesed House.
Gratefully,
Carolyn Sprawka