Yadkinville Growing Project
HOPE of WS has been presented with an opportunity to produce a significant portion of the fruits and vegetables we provide to families during our weekend operations. There is a 17-acre plot of land in Yadkinville, NC that has a total of 7 operational greenhouses, three of which are outfitted with hydroponic growing systems. The owner of the land has leased HOPE of WS the land for $1.00 per year if we commit to operating the greenhouse facilities. Approximately half of the land is not currently being utilized and is an opportunity to grow additional food items.
The ability to control a consistent, year-round portion of our fresh produce supply lines would provide numerous operational benefits and allow HOPE of WS to truly increase the impact made on thousands of lives.
Enhances our ability to plan & execute programming activities
Increases nutritional value, product lifespan and consumption
Positions us for future growth and offers revenue generating opportunities
We do feel strongly that taking the vertical integration step by growing the food internally is vital to the overall goals of the project. Taking on this part of the food procurement process allows us a number of advantages:
Year-round, consistent supply of food that is built around our high volume needs
Educational opportunities for children and young people interested in agriculture and food production
Opportunities to create jobs and offer internships
Adding more food into the local/regional food system provides for greater overall resiliency of the food supply chain
This project is a long-term investment for H.O.P.E. of Winston-Salem. We are in the midst of a 3 year implementation plan to get to full production and significantly add to our supply lines of fresh fruits and vegetables. This requires financial resources. We welcome partners to join us in this project and help make a lasting impact on the future health of children and families struggling with food insecurity. Please contact our Executive Director, Scott Best, at scott@hopews.org to learn more about supporting this project.
We are extremely grateful for the seed funding provided by the following partners
John W. and Anna H. Hanes Foundation
John W. Pope Foundation
Richard J. Reynolds III and Marie M. Reynolds Foundation
E.H. Barnard Charitable Trust