From Service Project to Lifeline: How a Utah Teen’s Community Garden is Feeding Those in Need

MILLCREEK, Utah — In the face of rising food insecurity in Utah, a community garden in Millcreek is stepping up to help. Esther’s Garden, located next to Congregation Kol Ami, was founded as part of a teenager’s service project back in 2013. Setareh Khadjenoury started it during her Bat Mitzvah to honor her family’s diverse heritage, and her family continues to nurture the garden today.

Volunteers like Kara Rasmussen find peace and connection while working there. “It feels like a chance for both spiritual and plant growth,” she says. The garden produces a variety of fruits and vegetables using sustainable methods, aiming to connect different cultures through food.

Their motto is simple: “Fresh food for anyone who needs it.” People are welcome to pick whatever they like, and extra produce is sent to local organizations, including food pantries, to meet the increasing demand. With food prices rising, quality nutrition is crucial.

Wendy Vurik, the development and marketing manager at Jewish Family Service, notes a concerning trend: “We’ve seen the number of people needing food pantry assistance double in the past year.” Many of these individuals are working yet still struggling to make ends meet. Fresh produce from gardens like Esther’s is vital for these families. “Our clients are so thankful for the fresh fruits and vegetables,” she adds.

As volunteers give their time, they also foster community spirit. Rasmussen emphasizes, “Initiatives like this build unity during tough times.”

This garden effort illustrates a broader trend in communities across the U.S. In 2022, a report found that 60% of food banks faced significant supply shortages. Community gardens like Esther’s can help close this gap, offering fresh, nutritious options where they’re often lacking.

If you want to get involved, volunteering opportunities are available every Monday at 7 p.m. at 2425 Heritage Way. You can also donate surplus produce to help others in need. For more information, visit Jewish Family Service.

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