PARAGOULD, Ark. – As grocery prices continue to climb, the Paragould Community Garden is offering residents free access to fresh fruits and vegetables during harvest season.
The garden currently provides a variety of produce, including tomatoes, peppers, and beans, for anyone in the area to pick and enjoy at no charge.
Looking ahead, founder Summer Neal is working to expand the garden's reach. Plans are underway to make fresh produce available year-round, a goal Neal believes will be achievable with the addition of a greenhouse. To fund the project, Neal has applied for nonprofit status under 501(c)(3) and is waiting to hear back about a grant application that could support the construction of the greenhouse and the cultivation of crops such as strawberries and other spring fruits.
“We have applied for a grant to help further the ability to have a greenhouse to build and grow strawberries and all the spring fruits,” Neal said, adding that she hopes to receive an update soon.
The Paragould Community Garden welcomes volunteers and encourages those interested in learning more about its efforts or accessing produce to visit the garden’s Facebook page for updates and information.