In late October, supporters of New Port Richey FarmNet delivered its initial donation of locally grown organic produce to Metropolitan Ministries, Pasco — over 60 pounds of locally grown organic sweet potatoes.

The sweet potatoes were grown at gardens affiliated with NPR FarmNet, including Grand Gardens and East Madison Gardens. They were prepared in the kitchens of Metropolitan Ministries for meals of persons served by the ministries.

So far, gardens and mirco-farms in the FarmNet community have produced over 700 pounds of sweet potatoes.

FarmNet, in cooperation with the Tampa Bay Network to End Hunger, is partnering with Metropolitan Ministries in a harvest sharing project to regularly supply  high-quality locally grown organic fruits and vegetables to persons served by the ministries.

New Port Richey FarmNet develops sustainable local food production and distribution systems, supports locally owned and operated businesses, develops resilient economic structures, educates on principles and practices of urban agrarianism and cultural resiliency, and cultivates authentic communities.

Photo above: (l-r) Diana Razaitis, Paul Vietrel of Metropolitan Ministries receives a donation of organic sweet potatoes from Dell deChant and Patty Jackson with FarmNet