South Plains Food Bank GRUB Farm

The South Plains Food Bank, Inc. was founded in 1983 by Ray and Lou Diekemper with the vision of alleviating hunger in West Texas. They appointed Carolyn Lanier as the first executive director, and together they began gathering and distributing canned food items. Over the years, the organization has grown significantly, serving over 100 million meals and engaging more than 9,000 volunteers annually. Notable milestones include the creation of the U Can Share initiative by Skip Watson in 1983 and the establishment of a 15-acre apple orchard in 1994, funded by Dr. George Elle and Rotary District 5730.

The urban farm spans 5.5 acres and operates without the use of chemicals, emphasizing a commitment to sustainable and healthy farming practices. The farm serves as a hands-on educational environment where underserved teens learn valuable life and job skills. The produce grown on the farm is part of a CSA program that helps fund the youth employment initiative.

The farm produces a weekly newsletter for CSA shareholders, hosts an annual Friends and Family Day in May, and offers tours and volunteer opportunities. Shareholders not only receive locally grown vegetables but also have the opportunity to mentor the teenage farmers.