The
Orchard
In May of 2006, the Emergency Food Network of Tacoma-Pierce County (EFN), the Korean Women's Association and the Pierce County Department of Community Services dedicated The Orchard in Roy. This unique project includes six low-income households and a 12-acre orchard that will produce apples and plums to be distributed to food banks by EFN.
"The Orchard is an extraordinary example of public and private agencies positively impacting the community through collaboration, innovation, and hard work," said David Ottey, Executive Director of the Emergency Food Network. "This project is a key component of the Emergency Food Network's efforts to provide a reliable stream of high-quality and nutritious foods to local emergency food programs. We expect that, when in full production, the Orchard will provide thousands of pounds of fresh apples and plums for distribution to individuals and families in need in Pierce County."
EFN planted 208 apple and plum trees at The Orchard in 2005 that will be ready for full harvest in 2010. Along with providing a lasting source of fresh produce for the thousands of individuals who visit Pierce County food banks each month, this project will provide a permanent source of volunteer and community educational opportunities for local residents.
