Sara’s love for gardening began at just nine years old, working side by side with her Pawpaw in the family garden. After his passing in 2018, she kept the tradition alive, continuing to care for the garden they once tended together.

Every spring, Sara brings out her trusty yellow plow—affectionately named “Sunny.” It’s not just any plow; it’s a special gift she chose as a child after a long day helping her Pawpaw. As a reward for her hard work, he let her pick out any plow at Crops Central Discount. She chose the bright yellow one, and the name “Sunny” stuck. Over the years, her Pawpaw taught her not only how to use it but also how to take it apart and repair it herself—lessons she carries with pride to this day.

Surrounding her garden with fruit trees, Sara grows corn, beans, and squash using the traditional “Three Sisters” method. She’s noticed an increase in harvest and a decreased need for fertilizer since adopting this approach—a testament to the wisdom of companion planting.

This season marks Sara’s first year in our Garden Program, and she’s already making an impression. She shared how much she enjoys connecting with other gardeners and learning from their experience, saying the shared knowledge has been one of the most valuable parts of joining the community.

Sara has a bigger mission, too: her goal is to grow enough produce to support local food pantries. Last year, after a productive canning season, she was able to donate several pecks of green beans. She also raises a small flock of chickens and generously shares extra eggs with those in need.

She calls her homestead Blessed Bounty Farm, a name that reflects both her gratitude and her generous spirit.

We’re thrilled to have Sara as part of our Garden Program and can’t wait to see what she grows—both in her garden and in her impact on the community!