Food pantries across Lake, Cook, Kane, and McHenry counties report that hunger remains a serious and persistent concern, as people in surrounding communities are stretched increasingly thin financially.

As winter’s grip loosens into spring, members of Barrington United Methodist Church are reminded that their Christian faith calls them to feed the hungry. That faith also brings hope—hope that spring will arrive and, with it, renewed opportunities to serve their neighbors in meaningful, practical ways.

Since its inception, the BUMC Congregational Garden has produced more than 290,000 pounds of vegetables, all distributed to seven local food banks. Anticipating growing needs in the coming months, members of the garden team have already begun preparing for a successful season.

Soil samples have been collected from multiple areas of the expanding garden and sent for analysis to ensure the right nutrients are added. Approximately 1,000 tomato plants, 400 pepper plants, and 1,000 broccoli plants have been started at Horchers Florist and Greenhouses in Wheeling, a long-time partner in this ministry.

In addition, 1,000 zucchini, 250 cucumber plants, 500 winter squash, and 100 pumpkin seeds will be planted directly into the garden. The planting schedule is carefully staggered over several weeks to allow for a steady harvest throughout the summer.

The seedlings will be brought to the church garden to acclimate before being planted in May and June. Throughout the growing season, members and friends of the church will work together to plant, weed, water, and ultimately harvest the crops. With God’s help, this effort will once again yield thousands of pounds of fresh vegetables for distribution to neighbors through local food pantries.

Anyone interested in helping with the garden is warmly invited to get involved. Whether you have a green thumb or simply a willingness to lend a hand, your help is welcome. Please contact the church office at (847) 836-5540.