Swank Grow and Share Farm program began approximately five years ago as a joint collaboration of Fishline volunteers, the Swank family, and Pheasant Farms. Russell and Ardis Swank donate their front yard for the project (approximately ¼ of an acre). Nikki Johanson (the owner of Pheasant Field Farms) allows us to borrow equipment equipment (such as tractors and other gardening tools). Fishline volunteers led by Leigh Wojcik and Paula Strid provide the manpower—planting, weeding, and cultivating the property. Vulnerable community members who cannot afford fresh produce can eat cleaner and obtain essential vitamins. In addition, our unhoused friends have healthier alternatives at community meal programs. Last year the team grew over 7,200 pounds of produce to distribute in our Healthy Foods Market. In addition, we donate to local community meal programs- such as that at Gateway Church.
Swank has been honored as the 2022 Innovative Farming Award for the Washington Food Bank Coalition and is a proud recipient of grants provided by the Poulsbo Garden Club.