In 2011, tenants of the Catholic Charities Msgr. Thomas P. Campbell Senior Apartments in Astoria, Queens expressed an interest in planting vegetables. The building’s backyard was perfect for creating gardening beds with pavers for separation so residents could access the spots easily, while keeping their spot private. Senior activities such as gardening has brought a lot of joy to the tenants, they take a lot of pride preparing their crops of healthy herbs and vegetables. Our residents work together to water each others plants and keep the beds weed-free. Gardening as part of our Senior activities keeps them occupied and provides great stress relief, not to mention delicious, fresh veggies to eat! Our seniors are happy to be able to continue this 10 year tradition now that the weather is warm and sunny.
Since the pandemic began, Catholic Charities Brooklyn and Queens has witnessed a 1,000 percent increase in food requests and has provided much-needed food packages and services at 49 Catholic Charities parish-based food pantries. In total, the agency distributed over $3.4 million in food assistance in 2020. In addition, Catholic Charities witnessed a 37 percent increase in clients in 2020, and continued to deliver mental health counseling, housing services, family services and early childhood education. For additional information, visit our website at www.ccbq.org.
Catholic Charities Promotes Green Living with Senior Gardening
