The organization Feeding Many, Inc. will break ground and begin planting 136 fruit trees for a community fruit orchard on April 4. Preparations are already being made on the site, which include building raised beds for strawberries, potatoes and melons and the construction of large arbors for grape vines.

The produce will be free and will go to residents of Jefferson County in need who come to the orchard to pick as much as they need for their families' consumption. Any extra produce will be donated by Feeding Many to agencies, ministries, youth homes and other organizations within the Jefferson County community.

The site is on five acres of land owned and donated by WaterStone Community Church, which is also providing the water for the orchard for which Feeding Many will be paying.The orchard and church are located near the intersection of Bowles and Alkire, at 5890 South Alkire St., Littleton, 80127.

Included in the plan for the site are orchard trees, including nectarines, apricots, pears, peaches, apples and plums, as well as raspberries and grape vines. The orchard and grounds will be tended by volunteers.

Shirl Smith, President/Founder of Feeding Many, invites the public to join her on April 25 at 9 a.m., for the Public Ribbon Cutting along with the planting of the fruit trees on April 4.

The Feeding Many Web site, www.feedingmany.org, will have volunteer opportunities, educational opportunities, times and dates for workshops on canning, and helpful tips on gardening, fertilization and useful recipes for fresh produce. You can also donate money via a secure connection to Feeding Many.