The Barry County Community Garden had some special visitors recently when students from the Exeter school district rolled up their sleeves and pitched in.

The youth spent the morning refreshing planting beds, pulling weeds, pulling up old plants and harvesting a colorful bounty of produce. Their efforts added up to 75 pounds of tomatoes, peppers, and beets — fresh food destined for local families in need.

‘What stood out most wasn’t just the baskets of vegetables, but the lesson these students took home: just one hour a week of gardening can make a tremendous difference for the community,’ said Melissa Hamilton, Barry County Community Garden manager. ‘In Barry County, where many households face food insecurity, small acts of service add up to full meals on the table. By giving their time, the Exeter students discovered that helping others doesn’t always require grand gestures — sometimes it’s as simple as pulling weeds or gathering vegetables.’

The students also learned that growing food doesn’t require acres of land or expensive equipment. Starting a garden can be as easy and affordable as planting seeds in $1.25 buckets. These little container gardens can provide families with herbs, peppers or tomatoes right on a porch or doorstep. For many, it’s an accessible first step toward healthier meals and greater self-sufficiency.

‘The day wasn’t just about gardening; it was about building connections,’ Hamilton said. ‘Teachers, students, and community volunteers worked side by side, proving that when people come together, even a short visit to the garden can ripple outward in meaningful ways. The Exeter students not only contributed to the harvest, but they also left knowing that their small efforts were part of something much bigger — a community united in the fight against hunger.

‘The Barry County Community Garden continues to thrive thanks to moments like these, when young hands learn the value of giving back and discover the joy of growing food. With each weed pulled and each tomato picked, the garden becomes more than just a patch of soil, it becomes a living classroom and a beacon of hope for the community.’

Anyone wishing to volunteer at the garden or get a school to partner with the Barry County Community Garden may contact Hamilton at Melissa.hamilton1969@ gmail.com.