The Alabama Cooperative Extension System has introduced the **250 Pound Challenge** as part of its **Grow More, Give More** initiative, aiming to encourage residents across the state to contribute fresh produce to combat food insecurity. This challenge coincides with America’s **250th anniversary** and promotes community engagement through gardening.
Bethany O’Rear, the home horticulture agent at **Auburn University**, has been leading the Grow More, Give More project since its inception in 2020. O’Rear described the initiative as a modern adaptation of the Victory Garden concept, which emerged during the pandemic. “We’ve encouraged gardeners to plant an extra row to donate their surplus,” she said. The new 250 Pound Challenge aims to elevate this effort by setting a target of **250 pounds** of produce from each county in Alabama.
Challenge Details and Participation
The challenge will run from **May 25, 2024**, to **September 7, 2024**, covering the period between Memorial Day and Labor Day. Participation is straightforward. O’Rear highlighted that gardeners should plant their gardens this spring, ideally adding an extra row or a few additional container plants. “When it’s time to harvest, intentionally set the extra aside as a donation,” she explained.
Donations can be made to various local organizations, such as food banks, community kitchens, and places of worship, or even shared with family or neighbors. To track their contributions, participants must report their donations through an online survey available on the 250 Pound Challenge web page at **aces.edu/go/250Challenge**.
O’Rear expressed hope that the challenge would foster friendly competition among county groups. She noted, “Gardeners can participate individually or collaborate with others. This might be the perfect time to start a community garden and donate the extra produce.”
Addressing Food Insecurity
Food insecurity is a pressing concern in Alabama, affecting approximately **2 million residents**, including **1 in 4 children**. The Grow More, Give More initiative empowers home gardeners to play a role in alleviating this issue. O’Rear emphasized the significance of community service, stating, “In a year when we celebrate 250 years of our nation’s history, we have an opportunity to show what service and community truly mean.”
If every county successfully grows and donates **250 pounds** of fresh produce, the collective impact could be substantial. In 2025, participants of the Grow More, Give More initiative donated **21,563 pounds** of produce, providing assistance to thousands of families across Alabama. Extension leaders are optimistic that the 250 Pound Challenge will enhance this impact in **2026**.
O’Rear remarked, “We know Alabama gardeners are generous. This is a simple but meaningful way for individuals, families, Extension Master Gardeners, and community groups to celebrate our country’s legacy by strengthening local communities.”
The program is open to gardeners of all skill levels. The Alabama Cooperative Extension System offers research-based resources for a range of gardening methods, including container gardens, raised beds, and traditional in-ground gardens. For more information about the challenge, participants can visit **aces.edu** and search for Grow More, Give More or 250 Pound Challenge. Those seeking assistance can contact O’Rear directly at **[email protected]** or **205-612-9524**. Local extension horticulture agents are also available to help gardeners with their initiatives.
