Pickling the Fruits of Their Labor: Seniors Come Together to Grow Their Own Vegetables

Tucked away in the corner of the Bedford Community Senior Center’s parking lot is a small but thriving garden, tended to by the very hands of the center’s members. The garden is more than just a collection of plants; it represents a beacon of hope, connection, and purpose for seniors who may have given up on their gardening dreams, until now.

Gone are the days of lugging heavy garden hoses or straining under the hot sun. With the support of volunteer gardeners, raised beds, and five-gallon buckets, these seniors have proven that not even limitations can stand in the way of cultivating their love for gardening.

“This is the first time for the mini garden, and we are hopeful there will be enough produce for others to have and use,” said Celia Apodaca, executive director of the center.


By repurposing waste materials like plastic containers and using easy-to-maintain raised beds, these gardens enable individuals who may struggle to keep up with demanding outdoor activities to continue participating in gardening without the strain. This innovative approach not only promotes sustainability but also fosters a sense of community among the seniors involved.

“The plants grew, and now it’s time to eat those ‘homegrown’ vegetables,” Judy Paschalis, a member at the senior center and a board member, said in an email.

The garden is just one of many activities offered at the center, which aims to provide seniors with a variety of positive things to do. From fitness classes to quilting, crafts, and painting sessions, there’s something for everyone.

“Every day, there are activities that anyone can join in — fitness, yoga, and Tai Chi classes, quilting, crafts, and painting sessions, playing cards, bingo, and trivia games, musical entertainment, bus trips, and other activities,” Paschalis said.

Throughout the week, for a $3 donation, the center also offers lunch.


The Bedford Community Senior Center is a shining example of how communities can come together to support one another and provide opportunities for growth and connection. As the center looks to the future, they plan to continue their gardening project and explore new possibilities, such as growing smaller pickling cucumbers, lettuce, and herbs.

“Next year, we’ll keep the same setup but may consider growing other things like smaller pickling cucumbers, lettuce, and herbs,” Apodaca said.

For more information about the Bedford Community Senior Center, call 734-856-3330.