The Iowa State University Extension and Outreach Master Gardener program awarded 25 grants, including one to plant a donation garden for food banks in Marion County, aimed at increasing access to healthy foods for families experiencing poverty.

Marion County Master Gardeners received a $1,000 grant to provide fresh produce to food pantries around the county. The garden will be placed on private property, but with the help of Master Gardener volunteers produce will be grown that will then be distributed around the county to the different food pantries.