Earthganic Greenhouse
We invite you to check back regularly more information and ongoing updates on our greenhouse project or to contact us at jasonh@ crossroads-shelter.org.

Crossroads’ Greenhouse Project Is Moving Forward

Crossroads Shelter’s greenhouse project developed out of the emergence of an opportunity to meet three of the shelter’s goals: to provide a consistent source of revenue for the shelter; to offer a form of vocational training and skill building for clients staying at the shelter; and to provide a service to the community.
Crossroads Shelter staff became aware of the existence of two unused,
commercial-scale greenhouses located several miles from the Shelter, and saw
the chance to use a neglected community resource to achieve their goals and
contribute to the local food system. The site will require a fair amount of
preparation for organic production of salad greens,berries flowers, ornamentals,
and bedding plants. The owner has agreed to reduce the rent in exchange for the
cost of the renovations.

As an organic operation, the shelter’s greenhouse will protect land and water resources and provide nutritious produce for the community while renewing a community resource. It will become part of a growing movement in support of local food in the southwest Virginia region. The revenue generated from the greenhouse project will support Crossroads Shelter in its mission to provide services to homeless persons. Residents will gain vocational skills and earn money, two critical elements in the successful transition away from homelessness. Finally, this endeavor represents an opportunity to create a strong network linking many different kinds of organizations - including agricultural non-profits, local businesses, colleges, churches and synagogues, and social service agencies – around a common goal of promoting an initiative that contributes to a successful triple bottom line: people, planet and profits.

If you are interested in making a donation to help with the greenhouse projects’ start-up expenses (briefly listed, below) or are willing to volunteer your time, please contact the Shelter at 276.228.9270 or send your donation earmarked for the greenhouse to:
P.O. Box 117 • Wytheville, VA 24382


We need your help with Start-up Expenses for:
o irrigation system
o seeds
o planting materials
o tools
o utilities (especially the initial deposit for the natural gas to heat the greenhouse)
o delivery van

Update:
In early November, Greenhouse Manager Jason Hounshell and a number of community volunteers and Shelter residents began the work of cleaning and renovating the greenhouses, which are located at 1135 W. Lee Hwy. in Wytheville. They also took on the task of making beautiful boxwood wreaths and centerpieces as a way to generate some much needed income for the greenhouse project. To date, they have completed and sold more than 55 wreaths & centerpieces. Eleven community volunteers have worked more than 100 hours and approximately ten clients have worked more than 150 hours.