Verona's Community Garden and Park held a ribbon-cutting ceremony yesterday, September 24th, to celebrate the significant expansion that has transformed this space into a lively hub for the Verona community. Although the garden has been active since Spring, this event was the ideal occasion to acknowledge the hard work and commitment that has gone into this year's developments.

This year's expansion has more than doubled the number of garden beds, bringing the total to 100. This growth not only reflects the increasing interest in community gardening but also emphasizes the garden's role as a welcoming space for residents to gather, reflect, and enjoy nature. Thanks to Eagle Scout Christopher Caldera, his project created a shaded area for visitors to relax, appreciate the scenery, and connect with one another. Additionally, Eagle Scout candidate Jack Smith contributed four raised beds to enhance the garden.

The benefits of the garden extend beyond its aesthetics; during peak harvest times, crops from the garden are donated to seniors at Hillwood Terrace. With the support of Verona's Board of Education, students from both the middle and high school engage in hands-on educational sessions, gaining valuable skills in gardening and sustainability. Moreover, a chess table invites players of all ages to enjoy a game.

The thriving state of the garden is thanks to the unwavering dedication of volunteers who tend to it daily, as well as help from DPW. The expansion and ongoing maintenance rely heavily on the generous support from organizations such as The Landsberger Foundation, PSE&G, NJEA, and Sustainable Jersey, as well as local contributions from VFEE, the VEA, and the Women’s Club and Junior Women’s Club of Verona.

If you have not had the chance to visit the Verona Community Garden, it is located behind H.B. Whitehorn Middle School, parking is available in the municipal parking lot off of Park Place. If you would like to show your support for the community garden you can support by ordering a brick for the new walkway. Visit VeronaNJ.org/CommunityGarden or order and customize your brick here https://www.thatsmybrick.com/veronagarden