After 10 years leading Manna Meal, Jean Simpson has retired from the organization.
Simpson, who worked in the food service industry for years, believed the people served by Manna Meal also should have access to fresh produce, said Ann Garcelon, who helps out at Manna Meal. It was Simpson's idea to start the Manna Meal garden.
The garden has since moved from its first location on Rutledge Road to a larger space provided by Rock Lake Presbyterian Church, in South Charleston. The garden, which is mainly fresh greens, herbs, peas, tomatoes and the like, produced more than 3,000 pounds of vegetables last year.
While Simpson won't be running the organization aimed at feeding the hungry, Garcelon said Simpson does plan on volunteering with the group. Simpson was honored Thursday at an event hosted by Manna Meal at the garden.