What a wonderful day it was! On Saturday, May 9, Stichting De Groentedeler joined forces with Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei at the (H)eerlijke Lentemarkt (spring market) in Zoeterwoude-Dorp. We look back on a lovely sunny day filled with meaningful conversations, new encounters, and valuable connections.
Introducing Stichting De Groentedeler
For many visitors, this was their first introduction to Stichting De Groentedeler. The market provided a wonderful opportunity to share who we are, what we do, and why this work matters so much to us.
We talked about the power of sharing. About how organic vegetables are grown and eventually reach clients of Voedselbank Leiden, but also about the important role volunteers, partnerships, and donors play in making this possible. It was inspiring to see how many positive responses we received. People were curious, enthusiastic, and often moved by the idea that locally grown vegetables can directly contribute to healthy food for people in the region.
“What a wonderful initiative,” one visitor told us. “I didn’t know Stichting De Groentedeler yet, but I’m definitely going to take a closer look at the website and would love to stay informed.”
Another visitor had already heard something about Stichting De Groentedeler at Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei. Meeting us at the market gave us the chance to explain more about our initiative. Yet another attendee turned out to be a valuable conversation partner for working together toward shared goals.
Throughout the day, we met inspiring people and had meaningful conversations. The (H)eerlijke Lentemarkt in Zoeterwoude-Dorp proved to be a valuable place to connect with new people and build relationships.
The importance of healthy food
Many visitors were surprised to learn that fresh vegetables are still scarce within food aid programmes. This made our conversations especially valuable. Through these conversations, we were able to raise awareness, underline the importance of healthy nutrition, and inspire collective action to improve access to healthy food for those who need it most.
Whether through donations, volunteering, or simply spreading the word about Stichting De Groentedeler, everyone can play a role in making a difference.
What made these conversations even more special was the fact that Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei was right next to us at the neighbouring stand. Visitors who were unfamiliar with the self-harvest garden could speak directly with the grower, while those already familiar with the garden gained a clearer understanding of our initiative because they already knew where our vegetables come from.
Thank you to everyone who stopped by!
We look back on this wonderful market with great pleasure and would like to thank everyone who visited our stand, asked questions, shared ideas, or was simply curious about our story.
Filled with renewed energy, we are looking forward to everything this season will bring. We hope to see you again soon, perhaps at the Natuur & Ambachtsmarkt (Nature & Crafts Market) on June 13, in the park along the Zoeterwoudse Singel.
Will you join us?
