YSU contributes to the cleanup

Greenhouse

On Saturday, Jubilee Gardens will partner with Youngstown State University to clean up the Lafayette Street garden from 9 a.m. to noon.

For almost 30 years, the garden has provided space to residents of the Mahoning Valley. Jubilee Gardens will provide gardening space, plowing, water, plants and seeds to support gardeners.

Pat Lowry, president of the Jubilee Gardens board, said YSU faculty members are involved in several local cleanups.

“Gardening is a passion for me and really good for those involved. This is an opportunity for us to get with other people and volunteer for tangible benefits,” Lowry said.

Other YSU professors are currently working with Jubilee Gardens.

Lashale Pugh, an assistant professor of geography, helped organize the cleanup on Lafayette and a future cleanup on Todd Lane.

John Jackson, an associate professor of biology at YSU and campus adviser for the YSU College Democrats, wants to encourage his student group to help with the work.

“Student groups usually do some type of community service, so this seems like a nice fit,” Jackson said.

Gary Walker, YSU biology professor, organizes cleanups at local prisons every spring. This year, the Trumbull Correctional Institution will participate in the events.

Various businesses donate seeds to Jubilee and provide enough for the organization to carry out its work. Jubilee provides plants for gardeners and gardening organizations.

Jubilee Gardens has provided tomato plants and seeds to St. Patrick’s Iron Roots.

Lowry said he encourages participants to bring family and friends.