theconnectionsnj.com SHOPPING, DINING, BEAUTY & EVENTS PAGE 17 t the heart of Warren Township, Wagner Farm Arboretum (WFA) is where community, cultivation, and compassion come together. The Giving Garden began as a small effort to grow fresh produce for neighbors in need and has blossomed into a vibrant, volunteer-powered garden, with a growing regional impact. Each season, the Giving Garden donates thousands of pounds of fresh, nutrient-dense vegetables and herbs to local food pantries and hunger relief partners. Through strong collaborations with nonprofits, schools, civic groups, and corporate volunteer teams, the garden transforms shared time and effort into tangible support for food-insecure families across our area. One of our proudest initiatives is the Growing to Give program, which engages youth, neurodiverse students, and volunteers in hands-on learning about sustainable agriculture, food justice, and environmental stewardship. Participants don’t just plant and harvest-they learn why access to fresh are welcome! Join us in growing food, learning together, and strengthening our community—one harvest at a time. WFA also hosts fun, family-friendly events throughout the year. Come visit our Children’s Garden, apiary, or one of our astronomy events for an evening under the stars. Come check us out at 197 Mountain Ave, Warren. Find out more about our mission and all of our upcoming events on our website, wfafnj.org and follow us on social media: Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin. food matters and how community-based solutions can address real-world challenges. Innovation is also central to our work. Thanks to a 2025 grant received from the Junior League of Morristown, the Giving Garden integrates hydroponic growing systems, allowing us to grow produce efficiently while educating volunteers about modern, water-smart farming techniques. These systems expand our harvest capacity and demonstrate how technology and sustainability can work hand in hand. None of these impacts happen alone. Our community partnerships and volunteers are the backbone of the Giving Garden—planting, weeding, harvesting, packing, and sharing in the joy of giving back. Whether you can spare a few hours or want to become a regular volunteer, your time directly supports our mission. Come with your family, friends, church, school, or work group. All COMMUNITY NEWS... Farm Fresh Fun and Philanthropy Discover All That Wagner Farm Arboretum Has To Offer: Community and Camaraderie Coming Together A
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