MARBLE FALLS — If you’re itching to dig in a garden, The Helping Center of Marble Falls has plenty of tools and new people to meet March 31.

Be one of about 25 volunteers to help spruce up the food pantry’s organic garden as part of the first Highland Lakes Volunteer Meetup.

Adults and children of all ages and skill levels are welcome to help with several areas needing attention in the garden.

“We need volunteers to clean and organize the tool shed, clean up a space for a new greenhouse, weed eat and help grind plant stems for compost,” Master Gardener Ricky Lane said. “Tomato cages are also ready to put in place for new tomato plants, if time permits.”

Master Gardeners will be on hand to provide direction and teach volunteers gardening skills needed for the workday.

Volunteers should wear closed-toe shoes and bring sunscreen and water. It is also recommended volunteers wear a hat to protect their skin from the sun. Gardening tools will be provided by The Helping Center.

Master Gardeners and volunteer groups have sustained the garden since its beginning.

“We serve approximately 500 families a month, and the garden adds so much to what we are able to provide families. Everything from organic tomatoes, carrots, onion to figs and potatoes are available because of the garden,” said The Helping Center Executive Director Sam Pearce.

Schoolchildren, people with disabilities, and veterans are some of the groups helping on a regular basis.

“The garden provided 3,100 pounds of produce last year; more than any other year,” Lane said.

Volunteers participating in the meetup will first arrive at Save the World Brewing Co., 1510 Resource Parkway, for the event kickoff at 9 a.m. After a welcome and a small breakfast, volunteers who choose The Helping Center will go facility at 1315 Broadway St. for a three- to four-hour work party in the garden.

With a limited number of volunteer spots, interested people should sign up now for the Highland Lakes Volunteer Meetup at 101HighlandLakes.com/VOLUNTEER. Look for the button at the bottom of the page.

The Helping Center was founded in 1987 by area churches. It operates with minimal staff and a cadre of volunteers and is open five days a week. The center occasionally helps with short-term medication needs and utility bills in addition to providing food for those in need.

Story by contributing writer Pam Rodgers

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