Cultivating Hope: How a potato brought a lesson of love and community

Cultivating Hope: Grow an Extra Row

“Where hope grows, miracles blossom” was the quote I came across this past week looking over clearance garden tools and seeds. It got me thinking of just how well our community has “grown hope” over the past several months of garden abundance. In the spring, as everyone planned and prepped their gardens, we encouraged our neighbors to “Grow An Extra Row” for the foodbanks. Through the selflessness and hard work of so many gardeners and farmers in our community they have nourished bodies and really cultivated a sense of hope for their neighbors each week.

Hope Lutheran Garden and their generous volunteers have provided thousands of pounds of food over the past several years. So when they pulled a heart shaped potato out of the ground we had to give it a permanent spot in our stories here. A heart shaped potato - a symbol of love and hope. It reminded us that when we come together with open hearts and a shared purpose, we can create a more compassionate and caring community.

To Hope Lutheran and all the individual Gardeners and Farmers who have donated generously to our foodbanks, thank you. You have provided…

  1. Increased Fresh Produce Supply: The additional row planted by these generous individuals significantly increased the supply of fresh vegetables available to our food bank. This abundance of nutritious food has allowed us to better meet the needs of our clients and provide them with a wider variety of healthy options.

  2. Sense of Community and Solidarity: So many people came together to support a common cause, demonstrating that even in challenging times, our community can unite to make a positive difference.

We continue to be inspired by the kindness and dedication of our local growers. Together, we can cultivate hope and create a fuller, more compassionate future for all members of our community.

     

 
   We first met Susan in Drive Thru Food Bank this fall at POM. After battling some health issues, she was in a tough spot, and knew she would be unable to work for awhile. She made an appointment to come in and meet with a case manager thro

We first met Susan in Drive Thru Food Bank this fall at POM. After battling some health issues, she was in a tough spot, and knew she would be unable to work for awhile. She made an appointment to come in and meet with a case manager through our Samaritan Services.

     

 
   For many Veterans, coming home is the start of a different kind of war. In some cases, it feels like they are at war with themselves. They struggle to find jobs, reintegrate to “normal” life and resources can be bleak. They face obstacles

For many Veterans, coming home is the start of a different kind of war. In some cases, it feels like they are at war with themselves. They struggle to find jobs, reintegrate to “normal” life and resources can be bleak. They face obstacles like PTSD and depression, which can leave them feeling unsure of what tomorrow may bring and if they have the energy to face it.

     

 
   Babies bring such joy to a family. The sweet smiles, little giggles and all ten fingers and toes are gifts that keep giving. And babies around the holidays? What could be even better than that?!?! But for one of the families we serve, the

Babies bring such joy to a family. The sweet smiles, little giggles and all ten fingers and toes are gifts that keep giving. And babies around the holidays? What could be even better than that?!?! But for one of the families we serve, they will spend more time around a hospital Christmas tree, than one at home.

     

 
   Asking for help takes courage. And for some, coming to our drive-thru food bank is the first step in starting a new path. Clients feel comfort when talking to the friendly faces there to serve them. Relationships and community start to bu

Asking for help takes courage. And for some, coming to our drive-thru food bank is the first step in starting a new path. Clients feel comfort when talking to the friendly faces there to serve them. Relationships and community start to build. And then trust and openness start to happen.

Neighbors In Need - "Food bank is creating community. "

Neighbors In Need - "Food bank is creating community. "

You know that feeling with you get into a routine and you just do things without even thinking about them? Maybe it’s the drive into work each morning. You get to the office and you don’t even remember how you got there. You think to yourself, “did I leave the coffee machine on?” Routines are good, don’t get me wrong. But sometimes, we focus so much on the routine, that we miss little surprises along the way.

“Hey, that’s why I am here to give back”. From client to board member...meet Maricruz.

“Hey, that’s why I am here to give back”. From client to board member...meet Maricruz.

Born in Mexico, Maricruz came to the US around age three. From there, she grew up in the quiet town of Quincy, WA. After moving back to Mexico, getting married and coming back to the States, her and her family have resided in Enumclaw for the last four years. “I didn’t even know this town existed! But then I feel in love with it. The weather is beautiful and it had that small town feel, just like Quincy, “ she said.

From fleeing her home, to giving her children hope...

From fleeing her home, to giving her children hope...

Have you ever been in a toxic relationship and it seemed like there was no way out? Whether it’s a family member or a close friend, the decision to leave is never easy. You second guess yourself, asking questions like “how am I going to make it without them?” or “maybe they’ll really change this time?” It takes courage, strength and a new perspective to finally close the door and walk towards the health you deserve.

Larry & June

Larry & June

Covid-19 has torn through so many families this year, leaving a wake of devastation that can be hard to fathom. Many families, like “Larry’s”, were living comfortably, with a decent savings account and a little extra each month for the “nice-to-haves”. Now they…