Dexter Garden Shed Project for seniors continues

DEXTER – Through the generous nature of area groups,Tri-County Technical Center, residents, and businesses, area senior citizens will continue to benefit from the Joe Sherburne Memorial Garden. About 10 years ago the Joe Sherburne Memorial Garden came into existence when a plot of family farm property was set aside for growing organic produce to share with area senior citizens.

Over the years, hundreds of pounds of fresh veggies have been delivered to appreciative seniors and recently our pool of volunteers has also grown. But with that growth of both recipients and gardeners, the needs of the garden have grown.

The volunteers come to the garden at different times of the day and evening, so the group needs an enclosed space where a dry work list can be posted and people can make their time there more productive. The gardeners also need storage for the small crates that are now used for vegetable deliveries which has come about because of the “no plastic bags” law.

And lastly since Maine weather is not all sunshine, a protective washing and packing station is needed. The Garden Shed Project will meet all those needs. 

To complete The Garden Shed Project, there are plans to work with the Heart of Maine Resource Center (when that becomes functional) to be a source of fresh vegetables for people who are food insecure. The joining of these forces will bring our growing garden project to fruition.

John Guay and the home building students at the Tri-County Tech Center are on board to design the shed, create a materials list and do the construction this spring. The gardening group are in the process of raising money for the materials. To date, they received generous donations from Fred and Belinda Crouse, the Dexter Sunrise Kiwanis and Wayside Grange & Theatre!

If you would like to volunteer and or contribute to this non profit worthy cause, contact Fred Sherburne at 207-469-8772 or Carol Sherburne at 207-924-3381.