Gardening to give back on Memorial Day

SOUTH BEND, Ind. -- While many in Michiana celebrate Memorial Day the traditional way, with cookouts and parties, many are looking to make a change in their community.

"[It's] a wonderful celebration of community," says the Sara Stewart, the Executive Director of the Unity Gardens. 

It's not a typical way to spend the holiday weekend.

In this seven acre garden, there is no pool, party, or cookout. Just neighbors helping neighbors. 

"What better way to celebrate Memorial Day than giving back to the community," adds Stewart.

Volunteers braved the heat to help plant vegetables and flowers for the garden.  The Unity Gardens is a place where people can come and get fresh, healthy food, for free. 

"Feeding each other, serving each other is a great theme to remember on Memorial Day, as a way to honor those who gave that ultimate sacrifice," says Stewart. "But it's also a way to honor those who we share the Earth with now."

That's why volunteers, like Notre Dame student Luke Fraser, spent his day gardening. 

"[It's about] being thankful for what we have and for the people who've helped us get here," he says. "We have this great country where we can do stuff. I guess it's like giving back and a way of showing thanks."

It was a true victory garden, as the community came together to make sure everyone could get access to some healthy eats.

"Our goal is to come together and provide these healthy food options for people who might not be able to get them otherwise," Fraser says simply.