In 2022, University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners (EMG) serving in Futon, Mason, Peoria, and Tazewell counties were challenged to dedicate a portion of their volunteer time and continuing education for addressing and learning more about food security and access. The direct impact they made within the year is very impressive and is expected to continue to grow. EMGs recorded 1,513 hours of service in nine local food...

Health and wellness involves more than just nutrition education. People may know the “right foods” to eat or the “bad foods” to avoid, but availability and affordability can also be deciding factors. Recently First Baptist Church Food Pantry (FBC) in Canton worked with University of Illinois Extension Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program—Education (...

How many people does it take to grow 2,500 pounds of vegetables in one season? In the case of the Morton Giving Garden it takes the whole community. University of Illinois Extension Master Gardeners (EMG) from Tazewell County created the Morton Giving Garden in 2010 to grow and donate fresh produce to local food pantries. The longevity and success of the garden is thanks to the collaboration with several local organizations. The garden is located on land provided by the...