By Jalena Borders
Nurturing the roots of community well-being, the Pick 42 Foundation takes center stage in Lake View’s transformative journey toward a healthier and more connected lifestyle. In an inspiring partnership with Change SC, developed in collaboration with the South Carolina Department of Agriculture (SCDA) and the South Carolina Department of Health and Environmental Control (SCDHEC), the foundation is sowing the seeds of positive change through its Eat Local Pee Dee Program by providing residents with access to farm-fresh, locally sourced food.
The foundation’s mission is clear: to cultivate a healthier and more connected community by making fresh, nutritious produce accessible to all. Through partnerships with local farmers and growers, Pick 42 and Change SC has established a network that brings the best of the region’s bounty right into the heart of Lake View.
Harvesting Goodness at the Lake View Community Center
Residents are now treated to a diverse selection of fruits, vegetables, and other farm-fresh delights every week. The initiative not only supports local agriculture but also encourages a wholesome approach to nutrition. Families, individuals, and local businesses alike are embracing the opportunity to incorporate these fresh ingredients into their daily lives.
Miko Pickett, the executive director of the Pick 42 Foundation, says the food was harvested directly from local farms. “Our farmers were picking collard greens yesterday. Today, it’s going in bags,” Pickett said. “There’s no grocery store that’s going to do that.”
In the heart of Lake View, the Pick 42 Foundation is spearheading a program to distribute free, fresh produce to our community members. Taking place at the Lake View Community Center each Thursday at 11am, this initiative provides a vital opportunity for residents to access and pick up nourishing food without cost. Rather than a traditional farmers market, this event at the community center emphasizes equitable access to essential, locally sourced produce for all our residents.
Beyond the benefits to physical health, the Pick 42 Foundation is fostering a sense of community. Thursdays at the Lake View Community Center have become a meeting place for neighbors to exchange recipes, gardening tips, and stories over a shared appreciation for locally sourced goodness.
The impact of this initiative extends beyond the dinner table. By supporting local farmers, Pick 42 is contributing to the sustainability of our region, promoting environmentally friendly practices and reducing the carbon footprint associated with food transportation.
Residents are not just recipients; they are active participants in this agricultural adventure. The foundation encourages community members to get involved through volunteer opportunities, workshops on sustainable living, and even community gardening initiatives.
To volunteer with the Pick 42 Foundation in Lake View, please contact Jennifer Ward at 843-845-0573.
As we welcome the holiday season, the Pick 42 Foundation’s commitment to providing fresh, local food to Lake View is a gift that keeps on giving. It is a testament to the power of community-driven initiatives, reminding us all that the roots of wellness lie in the soil of togetherness.
Let’s celebrate the abundance that surrounds us and the Pick 42 Foundation’s dedication to nourishing both our bodies and our community spirit. Here’s to a season of health, happiness, and the bountiful harvest that Lake View now enjoys, thanks to the Pick 42 Foundation.
