For many of us, lettuce is just another item on a grocery list. But for families relying on food pantries or no-cost grocery programs, fresh produce can be a luxury out of reach. Enter YWAM Emerge (Emerge Aquaponics), a Colorado Springs lettuce grower with a mission to help people facing food insecurity. Donated lettuce recipients include: Crossfire Ministries, Springs Rescue Mission, Marian House, Salvation Army, Food to Power, and a number of area food pantries and no-cost grocery stores.
Growing, donating and delivering more than 7,000 heads of fresh, delicious lettuce each month incurs considerable operating expenses for Emerge. Local businesses and individuals are invited to join the cause benefiting Colorado Springs area missions and ministries through monthly donations or a generous one-time gift. Lettuce production costs are covered, in part, by sales to local restaurants, small groceries and to Colorado College, but additional donations are required to maintain current levels.
"When I see the happy faces of people receiving free, fresh, gourmet lettuce, it warms my heart," says Emerge Aquaponics Sales and Service Manager Tim Spadino. "It's like a very special treat for the dinner table, and I know we're contributing to healthier food choices."
© YWAM Emerge
There are a number of ways to join the "Lettuce Help Our Neighbors" movement. The best way to help is through a monthly donation. Monthly operating costs are fixed. Monthly donations help with cash flow in budgeting for maintenance and growth. Donate at the link here.
Volunteer at one of the twice weekly harvest events with your co-workers, church groups, family and neighbors. Children, age 7+, are welcome (with parent or guardian). Volunteers are welcome on Tuesday and Friday mornings. More details are available at the link here,
Help keep the heads rolling! YWAM Emerge are in need of a safe, clean delivery van. If you are interested in donating a used van, use this link.
Businesses can take advantage of opportunities for team building while volunteering. Other benefits of donating to nonprofits include increased customer loyalty, improved employee engagement, retention, and morale, as well as enhanced brand reputation. Charitable giving also provides financial advantages, such as tax deductions, and helps build strong community relationships while fostering a positive, purpose-driven company culture.
© YWAM Emerge
"Demand for our lettuce always exceeds supply," Spadino continues. "Fortunately, thanks to our unique business model we can also train and equip mission organizations interested in building their own aquaponics systems here or nearly anywhere in the world."
Source: YWAM Emerge
