WVCF garden continues to grow food for many local charities

Amber Wallace/WVCF Programs Coordinator and Breanna Trimble/WVCF Community Service Director/WVCF photo

Wabash Valley Correctional Facility

CARLISLE -- Who needs some fresh produce?  The Wabash Valley Correctional Facility (WVCF) community garden wants to share a bountiful harvest with area food banks in need.  Six not-for-profit groups based in Sullivan, Vigo, Greene and Knox Counties are currently on the receiving end. 

​ “We are picking every day and have way more than they can handle,” said Breanna Trimble, WVCF Community Service Director.  “If your church or charity has a food pantry and needs fresh produce, give us a call, we are ready to help,” she added.  
 
So far close to 2,400 pounds of tomatoes, corn, onions, cabbage, peppers, potatoes and much more have been picked.  The WVCF garden, 2016 recipient of the Indiana Department of Correction (IDOC) Great Harvest Award, is on track to exceed last year’s harvest totaling 7,935 pounds.   Wabash Valley staff oversee the annual project and PLUS (Purposeful Living Units Serve) participants voluntarily maintain the garden, from planting to weeding to picking.  

​Garden Manager (and Laundry Foreman) Bill Spurlin said the harvest will continue through the end of next month.  Produce, like carrots, beets and turnips will be on the vine through October. 
 
If your church or food bank can benefit from the healthy veggies simply call the facility at 812-398-5050, extensions 3115 or 3117.  And by-the-way Ms Trimble says whenever possible, we also deliver the goods.