Eating healthy starts with the way that our food is produced. The method and location in which our vegetables grow affects the nutrients we consume with every meal. This month, we are highlighting the opportunities and developments in vegetable cultivation within greenhouse horticulture, an advanced cultivation method that many people know little about but is constantly evolving.

Sustainable greenhouse vegetable cultivation

Every year, extensive research is conducted to find more sustainable ways to grow vegetables within greenhouses. Modern greenhouses utilize innovative technologies such as high-tech lighting systems to create optimal growth conditions, and drip irrigation systems to manage water efficiently. Additionally, continuous research and experimentation help develop new methods in substrate cultivation, that are advanced and increasingly sustainable.

One of the key advantages of greenhouse cultivation is the ability to improve the control of growth conditions, which is more predictable than open-field farming. This allows for year-round cultivation, including the harvest of fresh and nutritious vegetables. By incorporating sustainable energy sources such as geothermal heat and solar energy, the environmental impact of greenhouse vegetable production is continuously being reduced.

Curious to see how it works?

On March 14, two experts in sustainable greenhouse horticulture, Peter Klapwijk (board member of Stichting De Groentedeler and greenhouse horticulture advisor) and Sjoerd Nieboer (lecturer, trainer, and coach in greenhouse horticulture), will give an exclusive guided tour at the World Horti Center. They have been following the developments in the sector for years and have a lot of knowledge to share.

Would you like to learn more about the latest innovations, ongoing experiments, and the use of light and energy in greenhouses? Sign up now for this special tour!

Practical Information

Location:
World Horti Center
Europa 1
2672 ZX Naaldwijk, Westland

Date & Time:
Friday, March 14, 2025
Arrival at 14:00
Expected end time: 16:00

Cost:
Participation in this guided tour costs €5.00. This money goes straight to Stichting De Groentedeler. Of course a voluntary additional donation is greatly appreciated. Your contribution helps us finance this year’s vegetable subscriptions, ensuring that we can harvest extra fresh produce for the customers of Voedselbank Leiden.

The future of sustainable greenhouse cultivation

At Stichting De Groentedeler, we emphasize the importance of healthy food, not only for the customers of Voedselbank Leiden but for everyone. In addition to donating fresh vegetables, we focus on raising awareness about food and food production. After all, a better understanding of nutrition and cultivation methods helps us to make informed and healthy choices.

This is why we are organizing this guided tour. It’s an opportunity for interested individuals, stakeholders and supporters of Stichting De Groentedeler to learn more about sustainable harvesting in greenhouse horticulture. A glimpse into the future, where specialists continue to innovate, to ensure that we can produce enough healthy food, both now and in the years to come. Will you join us?

Research conducted by Nibud in collaboration with Voedingscentrum shows that the higher the income, the more money is spent on food. For people with lower incomes, there is naturally less budget available for nutrition. But how does this affect their choices and eating habits? And what can be done to maintain a healthy diet?

 

The impact of inflation

Figures from CBS show that food prices in 2024 have increased by an average of 1.1%. In 2023, food prices were 12.1% higher than the previous year. Meanwhile, household expenses have also continued to rise, making it increasingly difficult for many people to make ends meet.

In 2025, people have experienced the urge to manage their money differently, with both positive and negative effects. Less food is wasted, and leftovers are frozen more often. However, some people are forced to make different food choices all together. Processed foods or products high in sugar and fat regularly seem cheaper and more accessible than fresh produce, but it is this fresh food that keeps us healthy.

 

Healthy food for everyone!

At Stichting De Groentedeler, we believe that access to healthy food is a basic right. That’s why we work to make fresh food accessible to all. Every harvest season, we purchase vegetable packages from the organic Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei in Zoeterwoude. With the help of our volunteers, we harvest thousands of portions of fresh vegetables each year for the customers of Voedselbank Leiden. These vegetables are not only healthy but also delicious.

“The people who come to us really look forward to the fresh vegetables from the garden,” says a volunteer at Voedselbank Leiden. “Sometimes they are introduced to vegetables they’ve never tried before, or ones that are not commonly found in supermarkets. They ask how to prepare them, and we provide recipes to help them enjoy the fresh produce.”

“We hope that, by experiencing the taste and quality of these vegetables, Voedselbank customers become more aware of their eating habits. That they start looking at the nutritional value of food and learn how to eat as healthily as possible on a budget. What you eat is the foundation of a healthy life,” says Jan Blok, board member of Stichting De Groentedeler.

“This applies to everyone!” Jan emphasizes. “Beyond Voedselbank customers, we also focus on raising broader awareness about healthy eating habits and nutritious foods. We’re always learning and try to share our knowledge with others. Take, for example, the 80-20 rule that Caring Doctors advocate.”

 

The importance of plant-based nutrition

At a Groene Idee Café event in Leiden, Caring Doctors spoke about the need to change our diet. They promote reducing meat and dairy consumption (20% of our daily intake) and increasing plant-based foods (80% of our daily intake). This shift is crucial, not only for the environment but also for reducing health risks.

“As doctors, we mostly treat lifestyle-related diseases, and we are facing a progressive climate collapse. Both are largely caused by our animal-based food system,” they state in their manifesto. Additionally, they highlight that 75% of diseases (including COVID-19, mad cow disease, and bird flu) originate from animals. Bacteria in industrial livestock farming are becoming increasingly resistant to antibiotics. These resistant bacteria can spread widely through food and human carriers, making them way harder to treat.

 

What can we do?

The vegetables we provide through Stichting De Groentedeler are organically grown, packed with nutrients and high in quality. By donating these vegetables, we aim to support lower-income individuals in accessing the right nutrients.

Beyond providing fresh food, we strive to raise awareness about the importance of a healthy diet, not just for food bank customers but for everyone. Whether you’re an individual, business, school, or childcare center, we can work together to develop a healthier diet for both ourselves and the planet.

 

Will you help us provide healthy food for all?

Would you like to support Voedselbank Leiden customers in maintaining access to healthy food? Donate now to help purchase fresh vegetable packages for the 2025 harvest season!

Would you rather get hands-on experience how these vegetables grow and are harvested? Join us as a volunteer! You can help in the garden, assist with awareness activities, or even support us remotely by spreading the word on social media. Donate or sign up today.

Imagine a world in which everyone has access to fresh, healthy food. A world without hunger, food shortages or environmental neglect. A world where sustainability, care for one another, and respect for Mother Earth are central values. It may seem like a utopia, but as John Lennon sang in his iconic song ‘Imagine’, every significant change begins with a dream.

At Stichting De Groentedeler, we work towards such a dream. A dream where no one lacks access to nutritious food. A dream of sharing vegetables to connect people: city to countryside, individuals to the planet we inhabit. Our mission is rooted in creating equal opportunities, and grounded in the belief that access to healthy food is a fundamental right.

 

Imagine all the people

It all starts with people. People who understand our reliance on Mother Earth. Those who take care of their physical and mental health and recognize that well-being is tied to the opportunities you’re given.

To turn our dream into reality, we bring people together. We raise awareness about the importance of nutrition, exercise, sustainable land use and community. Together, we build lives that matter. The more grounded we are, the more resilient we become.

On our farm, this principle comes to life. Here, we work with a shared goal, digging into the soil together to help over 600 clients who depend on Voedselbank Leiden every year. We often say that our garden is the best “gym” in Zoeterwoude, a place where we wonder who benefits more: the clients of De Voedselbank or the volunteers themselves. Digging into fertile soil, reflecting under an open sky, it’s as good for the soul as it is for the community.

John Lennon envisioned a world without borders. We see this as a call to break social barriers, to share what we have and to connect with one another. Whether you’re a volunteer harvesting crops, donating in support of our mission or a Voedselbank client enjoying the produce, we are all equal. This shared connection brings us closer to making our dream a reality.

But is our commitment enough? The answer is no. Too many people in this world still face a meal without fresh, nutritious ingredients.

 

Sharing all the world

As 2024 comes to an end, we face a world full of challenges. More and more people are losing their connection to themselves and the world around them. The gap between rich and poor widens and “food deserts” are emerging in cities and towns, areas where healthy food is hard to come by.

In wealthy countries like the Netherlands, supermarkets overflow with goods, yet Voedselbanken face increasing demands. In Leiden, Voedselbank clients receive supplies for four days a week, yet fresh vegetables are only included for two. This is not just a matter of food production; it’s about fair distribution.

That’s why Stichting De Groentedeler combines vegetable cultivation with raising awareness about sustainability and the importance of sharing. In 2024, we provided over 300 portions of fresh vegetables weekly during harvest season. Each portion contributed to a larger mission: creating a healthier, more sustainable world for all.

 

You may say I’m a dreamer

Dreaming means believing in a future that has yet to take shape. It’s a future we can create together by taking small steps toward significant change. Each season, we grow more vegetables, connect more people and move closer to our dream through generous donations.

Imagine a future where our organization is no longer needed. Where sharing fresh vegetables becomes second nature. Where no one goes hungry and everyone can eat healthily, in harmony with one another.

Imagine building that dream together. Fresh vegetables, no longer a luxury but a basic right. And you’ve contributed, by donating, by volunteering or simply by making conscious food choices and inspiring others to do the same. Together, we can make a difference. Together, we can bring John Lennon’s words to life: “The world will live as one.” It starts here, with you, with us, with fresh vegetables for all.

Will you join us?

Last month, Stichting De Groentedeler was awarded the Elisabethcertificate, a special recognition by the Diocese of Rotterdam. This certificate is granted to initiatives that connect diaconal care with sustainability and social engagement. 

 

What is the Elisabethcertificate? 

The Elisabethcertificate represents appreciation for projects that make a difference for vulnerable people in our society while caring for our planet. It’s a mark of recognition, not only for the projects but also for the many volunteers who make these initiatives possible. The certificates are awarded every two years in line with the mission of Caritas Internationalis to promote sustainability and social solidarity.

 

What this certificate means for Stichting De Groentedeler 

This year, Stichting De Groentedeler was honored to receive the Elisabethcertificate. It’s a wonderful acknowledgment of the value of our work.

“With this certificate, it’s clear that we are being noticed,” says Peter Klapwijk, board member of Stichting De Groentedeler. “It also emphasizes the importance of continuing our activities, as there’s still so much to do. Financial support is crucial in helping us assist more people, raise awareness, and strengthen our connection to Mother Earth.”

Treasurer Jan Blok agrees, stressing the importance of consistent support. “The clearer our prospects and finances are by the end of the fiscal year, the better we can plan the number of harvest subscriptions we can purchase for Voedselbank Leiden.”

Receiving the Elisabethcertificate has already put Stichting De Groentedeler on the radar of many. “We hope that through these new connections, we can continue making a difference for the more than 600 clients who depend on Voedselbank Leiden every year,” the board members say.

 

Elisabeth van Thüringen

The name and date of the “Bread and Roses” diaconal award and the Elisabethcertificate are inspired by Elisabeth van Thüringen (1207–1231), one of the patron saints of the diocese’s cathedral in Rotterdam.

According to a famous legend, Elisabeth was carrying bread in her apron to deliver to the poor in a neighboring village when her brother-in-law confronted her. The family feared she was giving away all their possessions. When she was ordered to reveal the contents of her apron, no bread appeared, but instead, beautiful roses.

Elisabeth van Thüringen is regarded as the patron saint of charity. She is commemorated on November 17, and the prize is traditionally awarded on the Saturday preceding her feast day.

 

Building the future together 

After receiving the Elisabethcertificate, Stichting De Groentedeler continuous to connect city and countryside, while working towards a sustainable future where healthy food is accessible to everyone.

Would you like to contribute? Donate now or sign up as a volunteer!
For structural donations, read the ANBI information to learn more about the tax benefits of periodic gifts and legacies.

This year, Nora Farih is once again working on a series of unique theater performances at Theater Ins Blau in Leiden. With the theme “Rooting Together,” she aims to bring people together, connect them, raise awareness and of course, provide immense enjoyment through the stunning performances lined up. Are you curious about Nora’s vision and the upcoming edition of Verse Blik? Keep reading!

 

The start of a successful benefit!

Verse Blik became the name of the benefit event for Stichting De Groentedeler. The same beneficial of the successful performance organized in 2023. Following this success, a new edition will be organized on October 26 and 27, 2024, once again at Theater Ins Blau. Inspired by the theme Rooting Together, people will come together to enjoy beautiful performances, from dance and music to breathtaking aerial acts and spoken word.

“What I love about Stichting De Groentedeler is how it aligns with my values,” says Nora. “They provide fresh vegetables to clients of Voedselbank Leiden and other groups in need. Their vision of sustainable food production, sharing nutrients, and bridging the gap between the city and the countryside aligns with my own goals of taking care of the planet and each other. Without a planet, there’s no life, so we need to take care of both.”

Get your tickets now!

 

Health as a human right

As a medical trainee, Nora views health as a human right. Healthy food is part of that, whether you’re wealthy or part of the more vulnerable sections of society. Another important aspect of health is nature.

“When we elaborate on well-being, nature plays a crucial role. It’s unfortunate that people spend less of their time in nature, while a natural environment offers so much and it’s excellent for mental health. While living in the city, people often lose their connection with the earth. Digging into the soil together is one of the most bonding activities. Volunteers of Stichting De Groentedeler experience this every Tuesday. Together, they harvest fresh vegetables for those who need them most. By taking care of each other, we can provide everyone with the healthy food they deserve.”

 

Finding common ground

“When you look at society, there’s quite a bit of polarization,” Nora says. “There’s less and less gray area. People talk about ‘us’ and ‘them,’ but I believe there’s not enough focus on finding common ground. With the performances at Theater Ins Blau, I hope to invite everyone to look out for one another. We share this world, and you can make it more beautiful by how you perceive it. I hope people come together to enjoy, be amazed by the artists, and see how much common ground we truly share.”

 

What’s in the name, Benefietvogels?

The name Benefietvogels was born out of Nora’s fascination with birds. “I see it as a metaphor for looking at the world. The most eccentric birds are often the most beloved; people make an effort to see them. I think it would be amazing if we could welcome people who are different from us with the same sense of wonder and admiration. If we could bring out the birdwatcher in everyone, sparking curiosity to get to know one another.”

The wonder and curiosity that eccentric bird species evoke await visitors at the next benefit performance. We will announce the acts on our socials, so stay tuned and grab your ticket to secure your spot!

 

On the weekend of October 26 and 27, the Benefietvogels will transform Theater Ins Blau in Leiden into the hub of the Fresh Perspective. They will present three performances filled with music, dance, spoken word and breathtaking aerial acts in support of Stichting De Groentedeler. The premiere will take place on Saturday evening, followed by performances on Sunday afternoon and evening.

Are you ready to be surprised, amazed, and root together in the magical power of performing arts together with the rest of the audience? Invite your family and friends and… Book your tickets now!

We assure you this is a show you won’t want to miss.

 

 

Another benefit show!

 

Click here to book your tickets

From 2024 to 2027, the Parochial Caritas Institution (PCI) of the HH Petrus en Paulus Parochie in Leiden and surroundings has pledged a donation of €1,000 per year. This wonderful contribution will ensure an additional continuity in providing fresh vegetables to the clients of Voedselbank Leiden and the continuance of our activities. In a conversation with board member Wilbert van Erp and his wife Els, we spoke about this wonderful step towards providing everyone with healthy food.

 

The connection between faith and social engagement

“Traditionally, the funds of the parish and the caritas institution are kept separate. What comes in at the PCI is not intended for repairs and maintenance but to help people in need,” explains Wilbert.

The PCI operates parallel to the parish. Here, Wilbert and Els, along with others, work to make an active contribution to society using donations from parishioners. This is done not only by providing financial help to parishioners and others in need but also by supporting social projects like De Groentedeler.

 

Fresh vegetables and agricultural farming

During their visit at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei, Wilbert and Els were amazed. “It’s a beautiful place where we walked around with admiration,” says Els. “We know how much work goes into growing and harvesting these vegetables,” adds Wilbert. “We also grow some of our own vegetables at Buitenplaats Berbice in Voorschoten, although the quantities are, of course, not comparable to what is harvested at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei.”

Just like the parish board, the PCI board also emphasizes how De Groentedeler combines multiple elements from the encyclical. De Groentedeler takes care of both the planet and the people in need. “The more people we can engage to contribute, both financially and with their time, the more we can help those who are struggling,” says Wilbert.

 

Conscious living

Wilbert and Els, along with the PCI and the Laudato Sí working group, are committed to increasing awareness around environmental issues. Through the Laudato Sí newspaper, which is published several times a year, the working group provides tips on living environmentally conscious and minimizing harm to nature. They highlight how small steps can make a difference as long as you stay aware of everything you do. They also promote healthy living and sustainable agriculture throughout the year.

In line, the working group contributes to organizing film evenings where the documentary Onder het Maaiveld will be shown in two churches in Leiden. The working group continues to keep Stichting De Groentedeler in the spotlight among parishioners.

 

Join the free screening of Onder het Maaiveld

Want to learn more about Laudato Sí, Stichting De Groentedeler, and the life beneath our feet? Join us for the free screenings of the documentary Onder het Maaiveld on September 19 or 23, 2024.

Collaborating, connecting, and raising awareness, that’s the joint effort of Stichting De Groentedeler and the HH. Petrus en Paulus Parochie in Leiden and surrounding areas for the upcoming period. In this blog, Jan van Trigt and Regina Krowinkel share the story of the Caritas campaign through which the parish aims to draw attention to Stichting De Groentedeler this year.

 

The Caritas campaign

“Caritas means love,” says Regina Krowinkel. “During the Caritas campaign of the parish, we create awareness among parishioners and dedicate our efforts to Stichting De Groentedeler.”

Jan van Trigt adds: “Several fundamentals are combined in this project. The encyclical Laudato Sí emphasizes the care for creation. We have been entrusted with the earth, and we must maintain it in good condition. There has been some neglect, and De Groentedeler addresses that. This is a rather important matter to us.”

The fact that De Groentedeler annually donates a substantial harvest of fresh vegetables from the region to Voedselbank Leiden is a good reason for the parish to support Stichting De Groentedeler. “It is a way of caring for your neighbors,” according to Jan van Trigt and Regina Krowinkel. “These are organic vegetables, which can help break through barriers.”

 

Joint efforts for De Groentedeler

Caritas is an essential part of the Church’s mission. The Caritas campaign for Stichting De Groentedeler is a widely supported initiative within the parish. The Laudato Sí working group, the Diaconal Council, the Parish Caritas Institution, and the Secular Franciscans are enthusiastically collaborating on this project. “It’s remarkable that four of these groups from our parish are so actively involved in this,” says Jan van Trigt. “I think this is important, not only for the board but for the entire parish here in Leiden and the surrounding areas.” During the Caritas campaign period, collections will also be held for the benefit of Stichting De Groentedeler.

 

Join the campaign!

As part of the Caritas campaign, the documentary Onder het Maaiveld will be shown. Screenings will take place on Thursday, September 19, 2024, at the Vredeskerk in Leiden and on Monday, September 23 at De Regenboog (Merenwijk) in Leiden. Tickets for both evenings are free, though donations to Stichting De Groentedeler are, of course, highly appreciated!

The documentary has been carefully chosen to raise awareness among parishioners and others interested in everything that lives beneath our feet. The tiny organisms we don’t see, but which influence our lives and the food we harvest from the earth. Are you curious about how this works and would you like to meet Stichting De Groentedeler and like-minded people?

 

Sign up for free!

 

Watch the interview at YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zSHeTWEcxcc

Guest blog by Nick Peters

This week we would like to share an interesting blog from one of our followers; Nick Peters, a 34-year-old permaculture enthusiast from Elsloo. With his passion for nature and sustainable living, he started to create a beautiful organic garden in his backyard. During this process, he inspires others with his experiences and lifestyle on Instagram by the name unraveled.life.

Last week he shared his vision on climate control, permaculture and food production with us. His goal: to create awareness and offer practical solutions for a more sustainable living environment. “Together we can make the world a bit greener,” he says, a shared objective with Stichting De Groentedeler.

 

Climate Control, permaculture and food production

In a world where the impact of climate change is becoming increasingly visible, it is essential to think about ways to create a more sustainable future. A green environment is crucial to make a difference. From climate control to permaculture and food production, there are many benefits to a green environment. Let’s see how we can use the green space to our advantage.

 

Climate control through a green environment

One of the most immediate benefits of a green environment is its impact on our climate. Urban areas, with their concrete and asphalt, can heat up significantly, leading to the so-called urban heat island effect. By integrating green environments in urban areas, such as parks, gardens and green roofs, we can reduce the daily temperatures. A natural effect of plants and trees absorbing CO2, one of the most important greenhouse gasses, and releasing oxygen. In addition, they provide shade and evaporation, which helps to regulate the ambient temperature.

 

Permaculture: sustainable food production

Permaculture is an agricultural method that mimics natural ecosystems and enables sustainable food production. Instead of intensive, monocultural agriculture, permaculture focuses on diversity and cooperation between plants and animals. This reduces the need for fertilizers and pesticides and improves soil quality in the long term.

By applying permaculture in our gardens and on our farmland, we can not only produce healthier food, but also promote biodiversity and improve soil structure. This helps sequester carbon in the soil, which contributes to the reduction of climate change.

 

One step further, creating a ‘food forest’

A food forest or forest garden, is a form of permaculture where a diverse ecosystem of edible plants is created. In a food forest, trees, shrubs, herbs and climbing plants work together to form a self-sustaining system. These forests are not only a source of food, but also provide habitat for animals and insects, and help to conserve water and soil.

Food forests can be created on both a large and small scale. From backyards to community urban projects, the possibilities are endless. They offer a sustainable solution for food production and contribute to a greener, healthier living environment.

 

Green roofs and vertical gardens

In densely populated urban areas, space is often limited. Green roofs and vertical gardens offer innovative solutions to integrate greenery. Green roofs insulate buildings, reducing the need for air conditioning and heating, and contribute to rainwater collection. Vertical gardens can be constructed on building facades and not only improve air quality, but also improve the aesthetic appearance of cities.

 

Community gardens: working together for a green future

Community gardens bring people together and promote social cohesion. They provide a space where people can grow their own food, share knowledge and work together towards a more sustainable future. These gardens can play an important role in urban environments, where access to green environments are often limited.

 

Conclusion

Utilizing green environments offers numerous benefits for climate control, sustainable food production and promoting biodiversity. By applying techniques such as permaculture and food forests, and investing in green roofs and vertical gardens, we can make a significant impact on our environment. Let’s work together to make our cities and communities greener, healthier and more resilient. The future is in our hands – and in our green environments.

 

Create your own green environment!

Are you curious about what you can do to make your environment greener? Or do you want to experience the power of green and sustainable food production yourself? Come and visit us at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei!

Here we harvest fresh vegetables every week on Tuesday morning, straight from the field. A vegetable growth that benefits our environment by strengthening the biodiversity, that is good for our volunteers who find peace and connection in the garden and the soil and of course beneficial for the customers of Voedselbank Leiden who receive these vegetables.

You can also contribute with a donation! This way we can continue to create green environments and share fresh vegetables.

 

Fresh vegetables, a welcome addition in nutritious foods for Voedselbank Leiden

Paula van Kesteren, former board member of Voedselbank Leiden: “It all started with an idea from Ekklesia Leiden. They wanted to do something for customers of De Voedselbank, which we are obviously thrilled about! We aim to provide fresh and healthy food for everyone, but there aren’t always enough fresh vegetables available. Gradually, a plan was formed to harvest vegetables at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei. This resulted in a wonderful collaboration, and the amount of freshly harvested vegetables we received weekly kept growing. Now, for the fourth year in a row, our customers are enjoying a welcome addition of fresh vegetables alongside the harvest from our own garden, De Bontekoe.”

 

Harvested especially for you

“It is wonderful for our customers to receive these high-quality vegetables. Normally, they get fresh produce that is on the edge of being consumable or no longer consumable. Products that no one really wants anymore. The beautiful fresh vegetables they now receive from the garden make a huge difference. They are extra tasty, nutritious, and contribute to our customers’ sense of self-worth,” Paula explains.

The weekly harvest is distributed on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday. “Tuesday is always extra special. We can tell our customers that the vegetables were freshly harvested that morning, just for them by the volunteers of Stichting De Groentedeler. People really appreciate this!”

However, new customers often need to get used to all those fresh vegetables. Vegetables straight from the land. Vegetables that, although rinsed, may still have some soil on them. A variety of vegetables that are not always found in the supermarket and may be unfamiliar to them.

Overall, the customers of Voedselbank Leiden are delighted that the harvest season has started again. They eagerly await the fresh vegetables each week.

 

What to do with unknown vegetables?

Introducing new vegetables from the garden can be challenging sometimes. After all, what do you do with vegetables you don’t know? Since customers of Voedselbank Leiden can choose their products themselves, unknown vegetables are often less taken than familiar ones. Usually not because they don’t want to try them, but because people don’t know how to prepare them.

“The garden vegetables can taste very different from what people are used to. Often they find the vegetables incredibly tasty, but sometimes they try something, and it doesn’t taste as expected. With vegetables new to our customers, we often get questions about preparations. To assist our customers, the Nutrition Centre initially wrote recipes for five types of (less known) vegetables. Simple preparation methods that don’t require a pantry full of spices or extra ingredients. This way, our customers can try and experiment with these delicious new vegetables.”

 

A perspective for the future of De Voedselbank

Looking forward, Paula indicates that more vegetables are always welcome. Annually, about 600 households rely on Voedselbank Leiden. They receive food for four days a week, with fresh vegetables available for two days. “This means there are still plenty of opportunities for expansion in the future. Maybe at De Bontekoe, maybe at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei, or maybe from a new garden.”

Although an increase in fresh vegetables for De Voedselbank is highly welcome, Paula can also imagine this project being spread out more broadly. “It’s great that De Groentedeler became a foundation. This provides the opportunity for fundraising and means you can do even more for other people.”

We can surely conclude that harvesting fresh vegetables for people with less to spend is a success. Like Paula, we can imagine a similar project starting in other cities across the country.

 

Help to share vegetables

Are you curious about the various ways to support Stichting De Groentedeler and Voedselbank Leiden? Click here.

Thanks to your contribution, whether in the form of a donation or by helping as a volunteer, we can help more and more people to enjoy a healthy diet full of fresh produce.