AYER COMMUNITY GARDEN COLLABORATES WITH VETERAN PATHWAYS

Veteran Pathways of New England (formerly Clear Path for Veterans New England) values activities that build community connections.  Recently we joined the Ayer Community Garden and devoted this season to organizing our gardening program. We have been fortunate to find two wonderful volunteers who are overseeing this project, Erica Frew and Heather Petri.

The Ayer garden is made up of local residents with the support of the town, who have come together to establish a community garden. The benefits of having a community garden are well documented. Gardens bring neighbors together, promote healthy lifestyles, and instill a sense of pride in our community.  All values that Veteran Pathways (formerly Clear Path for Veterans New England) embraces.

The Ayer Community Garden aligns with Veteran Pathways (formerly Clear Path for Veterans New England) wellness and nutritious eating goals.  As a community resource, the Garden teaches children and families about gardening and provides a space where residents have a place to grow fresh vegetables, herbs, and flowers.  As an added benefit, it serves as a community-gathering place; a sharing space for the town to foster a sense of community.

Thanks to Erica and Heather we have a solid foundation we intend to expand next year in line with the opening of our full-service kitchen and culinary program. With their expert assistance, we are embracing the Garden’s mission and working to get more Veterans involved to enjoy the health benefits of spending time outdoors while adding fresh produce to their diets, as well as experiencing a sense of accomplishment from growing vegetables, herbs and flowers.  We are committed to helping educate the community about sustainable gardening and healthy eating.

Erica and Heather both work in the Devens community.  They saw an opportunity to share their knowledge and a love of gardening with our Veteran Pathways (formerly Clear Path for Veterans New England) community.  They have been providing harvested vegetables to supplement Veteran Pathways (formerly Clear Path for Veterans New England) bi-weekly Food4Vets distribution. 

“Working in the Veteran’s garden this summer has given me an opportunity to give back to our amazing veterans while doing something I really enjoy”. –Heather Petri

“More and more we are learning that access to sources of healthy foods can make a significant difference in the quality of life, and no one is more deserving than this group of veterans who have sacrificed their very lives to protect ours. Being able to apply my love of gardening to help feed this community is such a privilege. We hope to expand this program and continue to teach the joys and rewards of growing food – I am so honored to serve our veterans in this way, it nourishes my soul!” – Erica Frew

If you have a hobby or skill you would like to share with the Veteran Pathways of New England (formerly Clear Path for Veterans New England) community please contact jgermain@clearpathne.org for more information.