Emily Grows Organic Vegetables for YWAM Missionaries. Here’s Why.
Why Missionaries Need Good Food
“It's incredible how many missionaries leave the field because of health issues,” John said to me as we chatted after morning worship in the Chapel. John and his wife are missionaries in Jamaica. John is particularly interested in nutrition and wellness is often concerned for his fellow missionaries.
I share a similar concern. Although my concern started elsewhere. During my time working in anti-trafficking, I observed that those who were vulnerable enough to be trafficked often didn’t have access to quality, nutritious food. In fact there are many vulnerable people (including those living in poverty or in food deserts) today who don’t have access to quality food, and instead live off of processed food that takes a toll on their health.
Sadly, missionaries can often be counted in the group I mentioned above. Missionaries often have minimal income and have little resources. This leads to them eating more processed foods and less fresh, organic foods. Over time this can lead to health issues and a less impactful ministry.
A small harvest of organic tomatoes, squash, and red cabbages.
I believe missionaries should be healthy and strong so they can bring the Gospel to the nations and be a blessing. The Great Commission can’t be completed if we’re all laid up with sickness or injuries because we didn’t take care of ourselves.
That’s why I pioneered the Kitchen Garden at YWAM Orlando.
On a weekly basis I grow and deliver many pounds of fresh vegetables, herbs and fruit to the YWAM Orlando Kitchen (cafeteria) where they then make fresh, well planned, meals for our missionaries and student missionaries. I have students and other mothers (with their children) come help me and I teach them about organic gardening and the basics of growing your own food.
Some of the students that serve in the Garden. These students will all eventually leave for their overseas outreaches.
The Garden is also a place of informal education and discipleship. It's been a healthy place for students to process what the Lord is teaching them, to share about struggles, and celebrate victories. Many students have reached out to me and said their times in the Garden have taught them about the character and nature of God.
I am deeply fulfilled by the work of my hands. I know that the missionaries that are sent from here have been fed real food that has nourished their bodies and given them what they need to serve well and be a blessing to the Nations.
Until all have heard,
Emily
The Garden has been an important part of our kids' homeschool education. Abby and Judah are learning to grow their own food. Annaleigh munches blackberries and green beans.
We harvested 50lbs of organic blackberries that were made into jam. This jam was given as a gift to some of YWAM Orlando's partners.
A small harvest being washed in YWAM's commercial kitchen.
Pruning organic squash plants to encourage a longer growing season.
A local youth group often volunteers on the YWAM campus. On this day they helped Emily in the Garden.