What’s the best kept secret in Saylorsburg? It’s got to be “The Giving Garden,” a 3½-acre site for growing tucked away off Route 715.

This all-volunteer organization, in its 15th season, helps plant and care for fresh produce and eggs that are distributed to food pantries in Monroe County. They even plant and give out flowers to bring joy to people.

President and founder Tammy Graeber was given the land by her late mother who “had an enduring spirit of giving and knowledge that everyone can love.”

While at a food bank herself, Graeber realized that “nutritional staples” were not available to low-income families.

The Garden’s mission is to “provide programs and services that improve the quality of life for Monroe County residents and enhance the awareness and importance of using vegetables for health …”

To start off the day’s gardening, Deacon Bob from Our Lady Queen of Peace blessed the garden as “everything can grow with love.”

Everyone was busy pulling weeds, raking and preparing the farm for the 2,600 seedlings to be planted.

Ryan Kudhnes, of Kunkletown, was helping put four rows of 5-foot metal stakes for tomatoes. This is Kudhnes first year and he volunteers to “help the community.”

Corn, tomatoes, green beans and zucchini are some of the many fresh produce products provided by the farm.

Twelve-year-olds Prince Bussey and Conner Beam were enjoying getting down and dirty helping out.

Beam said he “likes to help plant and give away to people in need.”

Volunteers wishing to help with the garden can contact Graeber or just show up at the farm from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Tuesdays-Saturdays beginning June 4.

A free lunch is served to the volunteers. Churches, Scouts and other organizations are encouraged to assist.

The Giving Garden is located at 2556 Rising Hill Drive, Saylorsburg.

For more information, visit thegardenofgiving.org.

To donate to the Garden of Giving contact Tammy Graeber at gardenofgiving@gmail.com.