Hi Friends, Supporters, and Partners,
As 2020 comes to a close, there hangs a sense of unknown and bittersweetness in the air. We saw both glimmers of hope and immense sorrow in our communities this year, and 2021 holds enormous uncertainty as well.
The novel coronavirus further exposed several disparities among people of color, specifically health care. When the COVID-19 pandemic hit, the number of households receiving SNAP, or food stamps, increased for families and individuals experiencing falling incomes and rising food needs. Some people experienced food insecurity for the first time, and this dire reality shows no signs of slowing down. In response, we donated hundreds of pounds of fresh and locally grown produce to local food pantries; doubled SNAP dollars at our summer farm stands and the Indy Winter Farmers Market so that people can put more food on the table. Developing a robust local food system and providing access to local, fresh foods is more important than ever. And we need your ongoing support!
As we move into 2021, our community will continue to face the strain and challenges of food insecurity. Still, I am optimistic that we will continue to make a positive and lasting impact through our collective work. We know that Growing Places Indy is a critical link between local farmers, food producers, and the community, and we feel a responsibility to protect the future of real food.
Despite all the challenges 2020 brought us, I want to express my gratitude to our volunteers who showed up with their masks ready to get their hands dirty, our staff who grew and donated hundreds of pounds of food, and our donors – Tito’s Handmade Vodka, Tyner Pond Farms, Eskenazi Health, Taft, and The Hottesetter Team. Thank you all for being a part of our mission!
While the current pandemic is unlike anything experienced in our lifetime, I know that our communities are resilient and can overcome anything when we support each other.
As you think about your year-end giving, please consider donating to Growing Places Indy.
Your gift allows us to further our mission, deepen our roots, and feed our community. If you have already donated, we thank you!
Gratefully,
Victoria Beaty
Executive Director
www.growingplacesindy.org