Spotlight Grows for Monocacy Farm Project
Fig Magazine selects farming ministry as Its 2020 Social Mission Partner
The Monocacy Farm Project runs on mission and the efforts of (from left) Sister Bonnie Marie Kleinschuster, project director; Eli Stogsdill, project manager; Amy Baringer, marketing and events coordinator; and Bob Drake, board member. Photo courtesy of Fig.
The Monocacy Farm Project, one of our sponsored ministries in Bethlehem, Pa., has been selected by Fig magazine as its 2020 Social Mission Partner. With this honor, MFP will be in the spotlight throughout the year, bringing new awareness to the program’s missions of sustainability, stewardship and education through, among other efforts, providing access to fresh produce for the underserved in Pennsylvania’s Lehigh Valley.
“At Fig, we believe in the power of a community that works together to identify needs and find solutions – and is passionate about helping its neighbors,” the magazine wrote in its Spring 2020 issue. “We believe in the mission of the Monocacy Farm Project.”
In addition to its Grow Healthy Community Initiative, the farm – located adjacent to our Monocacy Manor property in Bethlehem – hosts educational workshops for all ages, sponsors a “pick you own” program for local residents, and offers pre-tilled community garden spots for rent throughout the growing season. All in fitting Franciscan tradition.
“In shining a light on the Monocacy Farm Project, Fig also illuminates the urgent needs of underserved communities and of the Earth – our common home,” says Sister Bonnie Marie Kleinshuster, project director.
Garden spots are available beginning April 15, 2020. For more information, to support the project, or to garden your own plot, contact Eli Stogsdill, project manager, at eli@MonocacyFarmProject.org.