While our volunteers were harvesting and washing fresh vegetables in the pouring rain for the clients of the Leiden Food Bank, we welcomed sponsors and partners to the garden for an inspiring morning in nature. An event focused on connection, exchange, and shared purpose.
From idea to impact
Our enthusiastic fundraiser, Jan Blok, opened the morning with a presentation about the mission of Stichting De Groentedeler. He took our guests on a journey from the foundation’s early beginnings, through its present achievements, and into its ambitious future goals.
Since its founding, Stichting De Groentedeler has provided thousands of portions of organically grown vegetables to clients of the Leiden Food Bank. Fresh from the garden and carefully cultivated. A unique concept, not easily found in other cities.
Margriet Nieuwenhuis, board member of the Leiden Food Bank, emphasized how much the clients value these fresh vegetables. Not leftover products from supermarkets, which they’re often used to, but specially harvested, organic vegetables. It gives a sense of dignity and care during difficult times.
Two other key goals of De Groentedeler were also discussed: connecting urban and rural life, and raising awareness around healthy eating habits. To achieve these goals, we rely heavily on support from sponsors, funds, churches, businesses and private individuals. Together, we can make a difference for the clients of Food Bank Leiden. Together, we can grow awareness in the city. And together, we can reach and connect more people in order to build a healthier society that looks after one another.
Unlock new networks
Our guests actively brainstormed about ways to strengthen our collaboration. Several practical ideas were proposed:
- Co-hosting events and educational activities.
- Sharing networks to amplify mutual impact.
- Creating learning opportunities for those interested in durable cultivation.
- Offering students social internships at De Groentedeler and the Leiden Food Bank.
Once again, it became clear that the strength of this initiative lies in the synergy between people, organizations, and missions.
Fresh from the field
One of the most powerful moments of the day came when volunteers from the Food Bank arrived to collect the freshly harvested vegetables. The produce of lettuce, cauliflower, pointed cabbage and mint, was loaded into the van, ready to serve approximately 500 families in and around Leiden who depend on food assistance.
Spontaneously, our guests lent a hand. Together with our harvest volunteers, they helped carry crates of vegetables to the waiting vehicle. This hands-on moment brought the partnership between De Groentedeler and the Food Bank to life, showing exactly what their support helps achieve.
Sustainable cultivation and community
Following the presentation and vegetable handover, Mariska Verhulst, founder of Zelfoogsttuin Bij Mei, led a tour of the garden. She explained the philosophy and sustainable cultivation methods behind the self-harvest concept. A system where participants harvest their own vegetables, reinforcing the connection between people, soil and food.
The tour sparked an interest in visiting the Leiden Food Bank as well. Plans are now made to organize a behind-the-scenes tour there too. Want to join? Keep an eye on our website and social media or sign up for our newsletter for updates.
Do you want to share vegetables too?
This morning, we heard that there are more volunteers this season. A great development for the sustainability of De Groentedeler. Whatever the weather, they dedicate their time to the garden. Now that finding volunteers isn’t much of a challenge, the real challenge lies in securing structural donations from individuals, companies, churches, and funds.
Are you inspired and would you like to help share vegetables too? Make a donation!
You can choose to give a one-time donation, but structural support is even more valuable. It allows us to plan ahead and commit to a set number of vegetable packages each year. And more packages mean more healthy meals for families in need. Periodic donations also come with tax benefits, thanks to our ANBI status. Just fill in the form with your annual donation amount and support our mission while receiving a benefit in return.
