The initiative by two local service clubs to plant a vegetable garden at the Hurricane Irma transitional shelter (see related story) is commendable. For starters, this regards an interesting and positive activity that people staying there can get involved in.
It will hopefully produce at least some healthy ingredients to prepare a few meals, which the residents who often have trouble making ends meet could no doubt use. The accommodation threatened to close several times when temporary means provided for such ran out, but funding was extended also due to a new wave of displaced persons resulting from the current COVID-19 crisis.
Cultivating vegetables is known to have an emotionally rewarding and therapeutic effect as well. The project may be expanded in the future to become even more significant now that a first step has been taken.
But most of all, Rotary Mid-Isle and the Lions Club are sending an important message: It is high time to begin promoting horticulture and farming in earnest. Any country that depends practically on overseas imports alone to feed the people will always be in an extremely vulnerable position.
Especially as an island with a one-pillar tourism economy and part of the so-called Hurricane Belt, growing own food is a no-brainer and should be aggressively stimulated by offering incentives to existing farmers as well the general population. Keeping in mind the money being spent on different development-related programmes, this sector is certainly one worthy of serious consideration for investment.
