Rockwood Community Food Assessment

You've heard us say it before: Rockwood in Gresham is one of the poorest neighborhoods in the greater Portland area.  And with that poverty comes hunger.  Food issues in Rockwood are a major growing concern.

Are you concerned about the availability and distribution of food in Gresham?  Do you belong to a congregation and you see the need but aren't sure what to do about it?  Then please join us at the Rockwood Community Food Assessment.

It will be held Friday November 16 from 3 to 4:30at the Rockwood First United Methodist Church, 17805 SE Stark St., Gresham.  We will discuss what different congregations understand to be food issues, the results of a 230 person survey of the neighborhood, and discussions of what can be done to help. 

If you are interested in coming, please RSVP by calling 503-221-1054 ext. 210.

Community Gardens Workshop

The interest in and need for community gardens continues to grow. Congregations and other non-profits often have significant areas of land that could be used to enable neighbors to garden who lack land or who want to benefit from the social interaction and opportunities for learning that community gardens provide. Community gardens are also important to fighting hunger and improving nutrition. This workshop provides education, resources, and connections to help congregations and community members create and maintain community gardens that produce multiple benefits.

Come learn what it takes to create, expand or renew a community garden that will build connections with your community, reduce hunger and steward creation. Speakers include Leslie Pohl-Kosbau of Shared Gardens and former director of Portland Community Gardens; representatives of community gardens; and representatives of agencies that provide assistance. Learn about the successes and challenges of community gardens, partnering with other organizations and ensuring sustainability over the long-run.

The workshop will be Monday, Nov. 5 from 6:30 to 8:30pm. It will be held at 19255 NE Burnside in Gresham near the Rockwood (188th) Max Stop. 

The workshop is free but donations are welcome to support the work (suggested $5 to $15). To register, call (503) 221-1054 or send an e-mail tockelly@emoregon.org. Details are available at www.emoregon.org.