Willowdale Farm seeks help after storm damage to Greenhouse

WILMINGTON, NC (WWAY) — A Wilmington farm that provides fresh produce to people facing food insecurity is asking for help after high winds tore the cover off its greenhouse.

Willowdale Urban Farm is a volunteer-run project operated by Community Enrichment Initiatives, Inc. The farm spans two acres in Wilmington and grows seasonal vegetables distributed to local residents in need.

Dolores Williams, a longtime volunteer and officer with the nonprofit, said the storm hit at a critical time in the growing season.

“It was just last week—actually a few days ago—the wind just took the cover completely off,” she said.

Williams, an attorney by profession, has been involved with the farm for seven years. She now handles everything from accounting to harvesting.

“We grow fresh vegetables to give to the food insecure in our community,” she said. “Mostly a lot of greens, peas, beans—our tomatoes are really great this year.”

The damage comes during a key planting window.

“Because it’s time to plant seeds—and you can see we have some transplants growing here—but we need to plant seeds for the next season and to replenish things as the plants die in the fields,” Williams said.

Beverly Williams, another volunteer and the farm’s resident chef, said she launched a GoFundMe campaign to support repairs.

“Most people around here love this place,” she said. “And we have people from all walks of life that come here—and I always believe that the ones who come here are meant to be here, so I wanted to reach out to those people, touch their hearts.”

The fundraiser has a $10,000 goal, but Williams said the amount is not the focus.

“We did put $10,000—I don’t expect $10,000, that is just a number—I expect souls just to reach out and touch,” she said. “I always feel if you give a little, you get something back. Make them know that this land is for them—to come and enjoy this space.”

The farm operates Monday through Saturday from 9 a.m. to noon. Volunteers are welcome, and no gardening experience is necessary.