During World War I and WWII, many families and companies across America (The United Kingdom & Canada) contributed to morale and the war effort by planting gardens of vegetables, herbs, and fruit. Although gardens were planted at home plots, many times gardens were also found on a business land or public park
s and public lands.
Especially in Europe, where much of the fighting was done during both wars, production of foods became harder. Manpower was limited with many off fighting the wars or involved in wartime materials production. Areas that had once been farmed were no longer safe and available for growing and harvesting. Rationing of food and other items became a way of life during both of these conflicts, both overseas and here at home in the U.S.
By the end of 1944, almost 20 million Americans were taking part in the national "Victory Garden" campaign and almost 40% of all the vegetables consumed in our country were being raised through this gardening effort. Even the White House had a garden on its grounds ... something revived on the White House grounds the last two years by First Lady Michelle Obama.
Now there is another national effort for "Victory Gardens" sprouting up and it has found its way to Naperville, IL. This last Monday, a 400 square foot garden was measured out, cultivated, and planted near the Kraft plant off Jefferson and Ogden Avenues in Naperville. The garden, started by the non-profit organization "Urban Farming", will produce an estimated 500 pounds of fresh, homegrown food items. The majority of
what is grown will help local families in need of assistance.
Local volunteers and employees of the Kraft plant are helping out by overseeing the planting, watering, care, and harvesting of the garden. They will be allowed to bring some of the garden's produce home as a thank you for helping, but the majority will find its way to the Naperville Loaves and Fishes Community Food Pantry.
From there it will help feed approximately 3,500 households locally.
Naperville has a history of growing gardens in this manner. Its Park District has had community gardens for years. The "Urban Farming" garden planted in Naperville on Monday, is the 33rd such garden started in a nationwide partnership with Triscuit, which is manufactured at the Naperville Kraft Plant site. It is just one of the more than 1,000 gardens to be started by "Urban Farming" in the U.S. and overseas this year.
The timing for this garden is perfect. There is a real revival and renewed interest in gardening within our country. It's also been proven that locally grown fresh fruits and vegetables are much more healthy to eat and help to fight obesity. Obviously good for our kids!
Naperville can be proud that it is progressive in its health approach and is helping to lead the way towards healthier residents ... all while helping those in need.
Gene Mundt, Sr. Vice President
Personal NMLS #216987
Chicago Bancorp NMLS # 63483
1823 Centre Point Circle, Naperville, IL 60563
Now on Skype! 630-219-1316
