Jim and Kathy Vashro, of East Andover, wanted to do something that would help people in local communities, and thus, “Neighbor to Neighbor” was born.

Jim has been volunteering at Two Rivers Food Pantry in Franklin, where he learned that one item always in low supply are potatoes. Jim and Kathy own 130 acres of land, mostly wooded, but with about 20 open acres to utilize as an area for potato cultivation, as well as their own vegetable garden.

Late last spring, they prepared and planted 100 pounds of seed potatoes: ten 100-foot rows, and have tended them all summer — lots of hand weeding. Keeping weeds at bay is an important part of the growing process; weeds use valuable nutrients and water that potato plants need to thrive. 

The next step involved planning how to harvest and distribute the potatoes to food pantries.  Kathy discovered an organization called New Hampshire Gleans (a volunteer group) that will do just that, so the idea of helping others has become a reality.

Locally, anyone with low food security is welcome at Twin Rivers Food Pantry or New London Food Pantry, and Jim and Kathy’s potatoes will be a great addition to what’s available.
Kathy and Jim know that, as Helen Keller said, “Alone we can do so little; together we can do so much.” Neighbor to neighbor, they are making a difference.

Donations to help defray the costs of this project and volunteer participation are always welcome. Contact Kathy at jvashro@nullgmail.com.