SaddleBrooke Ranch Harvest Garden Supports Local Families

The SaddleBrooke Ranch community recently came together to make a meaningful difference in Tucson, Arizona. Volunteers at the SaddleBrooke Ranch Harvest Garden have been growing fresh, organic vegetables to support IMPACT of Southern Arizona, a local non-profit food bank. This inspiring project highlights how 55+ active adult communities can give back while embracing senior living values.

A Garden Grows with Purpose

During a recent visit to the community garden, bins overflowed with ripening tomatoes hanging from four-foot plants, slender zucchini beneath lush leaves, colorful purple chard, and fragrant herbs. For several weeks, more than 18 SaddleBrooke Ranch volunteers have tended these bins, planting and nurturing vegetables that will benefit neighbors in need.

George Van Ess and his wife, Melody, spearheaded the project this past summer. With the support of SaddleBrooke Ranch General Manager Mike Taylor and the developer Robson, they acquired ten raised bins and rallied local businesses to support the initiative. “As a gardener, I saw the unused raised beds as a great opportunity to provide fresh vegetables for IMPACT of Southern Arizona,” says Van Ess.

Community Support Makes It Possible

The Harvest Garden project has received generous contributions from local businesses:

• Home Depot – watering timers and fence posts

• Ace Hardware, Catalina – soil, fertilizer, and soaker hoses

• Marks Ace Hardware – soaker hoses and shade cloth

• Harlow Gardens – seed packs

• ARBICO Organics – compost

• Tractor Supply, Catalina – metal frames for shade cloth

SaddleBrooke Ranch residents also donated funds to purchase plants and garden supplies, helping the project flourish.

Partnering with IMPACT of Southern Arizona

Van Ess connected with IMPACT of Southern Arizona, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to feeding local families. Barbara McClure, IMPACT Executive Director, shared her excitement about the partnership. On average, the food bank serves 800 different families each month, providing essential support to thousands of individuals. With rising food costs, donations of fresh produce offer healthier options for meals throughout the year.

“The Ranch gardens will definitely have a meaningful impact on local families this season,” says McClure. “What a blessing.”

How to Support

Residents and friends can contribute to the project by sending donations to IMPACT of Southern Arizona with “SBR Harvest” in the memo line of checks.

Contributions by Sheilah Britton

About SaddleBrooke Ranch

SaddleBrooke Ranch is a premier 55+ active adult community near Tucson in Oracle, Arizona. Offering an engaging resort lifestyle, residents enjoy opportunities to connect, give back, and embrace senior living to its fullest. With new homes available, prospective residents are invited to visit the community and tour the models to learn more.

Come see SaddleBrooke Ranch for yourself and discover the vibrant 55+ active adult lifestyle that awaits.