Since 2023, Central Lakes College (CLC) and the Crow Wing Master Gardener Volunteer Program have collaborated to broaden the fresh food options available at the college’s food pantry. Central Lakes installed onsite raised bed gardens, and Master Gardener volunteers plant, maintain, and harvest the beds, delivering fresh fruits and vegetables to the pantry. Students are encouraged to pick food fresh from the gardens themselves, as well. In addition, Master Gardener Volunteers donate food grown in their other area Giving Gardens. This partnership has led to over 1,000 pounds of fresh produce making its way into CLC’s pantry and onto the plates of college students. To learn more about Central Lakes College’s and Extension’s partnership, click here.
