A new garden in Salina is meant to be used by everyone, really.
Of the around 50 total planters, the garden has five elevated planters on concrete that allow for wheelchair and other accessibility. The northeast corner of the garden is dedicated as a children s garden, and another area is set apart for trial vegetables from K-State.
While there are other community gardens in the city, Jason Graves, a horticulturist with Kansas State University Research and Extension, said this one is different than anything else done in Salina. This garden is very unique in its design for accessibility and just the diversity of folks we hope to attract into the experience of growing their own food, Graves said.
The Salina Food Bank received a donation of 263 bars of soap from Gratitude Soapery Monday morning as they ramp up collection efforts for the approaching summer season.
Gratitude owner Kristin Blomquist gave away the soap as a part of her business’s mission to donate one bar for every one sold, and her gift resulted in a meaningful moment that comes after years of hardship.
Salina Food Bank sees higher needs in summer
When she came in Monday to drop off the gift, Karen Couch, the executive director of the food bank, gave Blomquist a tour of the facility and the community garden that will soon be completely open.