June 2024 Newsletter
See you later June, Happy July!
I hope you and your families have a wonderful July 4th, filled with joy and celebration as we honor the spirit of independence and freedom. Building on last month’s newsletter, I'm excited to share progress on my third yearly goal: supporting and improving programs offered by the Division of Senior Services.
Throughout June, I've been laying the groundwork for a countywide seed library initiative. This project aims to provide seniors and all Sussex County residents with access to seeds for growing food, promoting sustainability, and educating the community on healthy eating and gardening habits. Inspired by Camden County, which established New Jersey's first countywide seed library in January 2024, I met with their program coordinator, who generously shared their techniques and organizational structure.
Following this, I met with our deputy county administrator and Senior Services Director to discuss logistics, senior education, and seed acquisition strategies. Together, we then met with Sussex County’s Library Director to explore using the county's six libraries as conveniently located distribution centers. Additionally, the Rutgers Master Gardeners of Sussex County expressed strong interest in leading educational courses at our local libraries and senior centers.
The countywide seed library will be implemented in four phases:
Phase 1 (Fall 2024): Soliciting seed donations.
Phase 2 (Early 2025): Residents ordering and picking up seeds.
Phase 3 (Spring/Summer 2025): Organizing educational events on seed starting and healthy gardening techniques.
Phase 4 (Late 2025): Conducting workshops on seed saving and evaluating the program's impact, including plant health, production, and yield.
We are on track to launch this initiative as scheduled. As time goes on I will be sure to include updates on any new developments or insights. If you have any questions, please feel free to reach out.
Lastly, thank you to everyone who attended and contributed to my 2nd Annual Pig Roast! It was a fantastic evening, and for those who couldn't attend, I felt your support in spirit. Your ongoing support means the world to me. Thank you & God Bless!
Sincerely,
Jack DeGroot