Notre Dame Prep Student to Bring Fresh Foods to Those in Need

Notre Dame Prep Student Partners With Ascension Crittenton Hospital to Bring Fresh Foods to Those in Need

Ascension Crittenton Hospital volunteer Antonio Gonzales has spent weeks planning, planting, watering and harvesting vegetables for those in need. The ‘Unlimited Potential’ Employee Giving Committee of Ascension Crittenton Hospital has maintained raised vegetable garden beds at the hospital for over five years. Gonzales, a Notre Dame Preparatory High School senior seeking a school project, took on the maintenance of the garden this summer and the amount of produce harvested has been increased twofold.

Notre Dame Prep Student Partners With Ascension Crittenton Hospital To Bring Fresh Foods To Those In Need

In just the first few weeks, Gonzales brought over 15 pounds of lettuce, peppers, radishes and green beans to the Neighborhood House Food Pantry. The vegetable plants were purchased at Bordine’s in Rochester Hills, keeping the project tied to local business. The project has not only taught Gonzales the tips and tricks of growing vegetables, but also the important of giving back locally. “It is easy to forget that in the Rochester Hills area there are people who need this kind of help, so to be able to provide assistance to those who are often forgotten is a service I truly enjoy,” said Gonzales. “I’m happy to put in the time and effort to plant, maintain and harvest the garden. Especially if it means helping someone live a healthier life.”

Ascension Crittenton Hospital has a long-standing partnership with Neighborhood House; both institutions have been serving the community for over 50 years. Just last year, Neighborhood House fed over 4,400 clients with close to 250,000 pounds of food in the greater Rochester area. “We are thrilled to expand our partnership with Ascension Crittenton Hospital and Notre Dame Prep High School through this young man’s thoughtful and innovative idea,” said Kathy Losinski, Executive Director of Neighborhood House. Gonzales and Ascension Crittenton Hospital staff are proud to be able to contribute fresh produce to the Food Pantry throughout this summer – and beyond. Community members can support the Neighborhood House Food Pantry by visiting www.ranh.org.