As we work our way toward this year’s end of year fundraising goal for $100,000 to support KPC’s general fund…things have gotten off to a slow start. Just under $300 was raised as of writing this update, which prompted an immediate donation by one of our ordained as they were struck by such a large gap still remaining. This week is a great time to give thanks and focus on growing that amount raised!

Fall has arrived again in the Buddhist Giving Gardens, celebrating the third Fall season of cultivating and producing vegetables. Everything grown is delivered to KPC’s food distribution partners who ensure the produce goes straight to the people who need it the most. It is a real community affair!

The Buddhist Giving Gardens provide more than fresh, organically grown produce. They give people the opportunity to learn experientially and work together in
community. Having the knowledge and experience to grow food builds true food security.

These gardens are unique in that they are professionally managed to ensure their success and enable participants to learn with the guidance of a knowledgeable person. This year, regular participants in the garden have gained enough experience to describe and show new participants what to do. This “each one, teach one” method is a beautiful milestone, showing the power of learning in community.

Usually, the onset of Fall means growing is done for the year. It’s traditional in the Maryland climate zone to begin reaping remaining harvests and putting gardens “to bed”. This is not the case for the Buddhist Giving Gardens. Since the gardens’ inception in 2021, we have worked toward closing the four-month winter gap, with a goal of harvesting produce year-round.

This year we are coming closer to that goal, having just harvested a whopping 100 lbs of produce in the past month and getting new plants started in our hoop
house. This year the gardens were expanded by an additional 900 square feet.

Of course none of this would be possible without the great blessings of Jetsunma Ahkon Lhamo, and you – our entire community of supporters, keeping the KPC Mandala open for all. If you would like to join this community enriching activity, there are several ways to do so.

Want to get involved? Click Here to Volunteer in Maryland