Aspiring Gardeners at Eliada Seek Donations

ASHEVILLE – July 2008 – Nine teenage girls at Eliada are on a mission to transform their backyard into a lush, organic garden, and they need your help. They have the support of a local landscaper, who has donated her time and expertise to help the students design the space. She will also supervise and assist the students and volunteers with the installation. Now, all they need are the materials.

According to Safi Mahaba, Program Manager of the residential cottage where the girls live, “Their plan begins with amending the soil, planting a grassy area, and then building garden beds.  They also want to plant two fruit trees, flower & vegetable beds, and grape vines along the surrounding fence.”

They are asking the community for donations of soil amendments, fruit and vegetable seeds, fruit trees, grape vines, and other materials to help make the garden possible. “The entire project will cost less than $1,000,” says Mahaba. “If anyone out there can give plants, materials, tools, or make a financial donation, we would sincerely appreciate it.”

If you are interested in donating to the Eliada garden project, please contact Carolyn Ashworth at 828.254.5356 x 113 or via email at cashworth@eliada.org.

About Eliada
Eliada is a 105 year old non-profit agency serving North Carolina’s children and families. Founded in 1903 by Dr. Lucius B. Compton as a home for women and children, Eliada’s full service continuum includes NAEYC accredited Child Development Services (Pre School, After School, Summer Camp, More at Four); Residential and Day Treatment for children and adolescents; In Home services; Foster Care and Therapeutic Foster Care; and Therapeutic Recreation services. Learn more about Eliada’s history and services by visiting www.eliada.org. The agency enters its second century with pride, committed to the fulfillment of its mission statement: Helping Children Succeed.