Proceeds from the sales of the plants at the greenhouse will benefit the indigent at Warren State Hospital and fund the next year at the greenhouse.

With a larger crop than ever before in the 10 years of the program, the volunteers may have enough money to make additional donations. “We’ve been considering giving to a food bank,” Treasurer Dave Martin said.

The volunteers are organized by the Allegheny Community Center and have been putting in about three days a week into making sure the plants are thriving. The Area Agency of Aging handles the money for the non-profit venture.

The greenhouse, located on Hospital Drive — away from Walmart at the Route 62 Warren Commons traffic signal, opens on April 30 and is open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays through May 29.

Times Observer photo by Brian Ferry Greenhouse Volunteer Carol Sauers loads a hanging basket on Friday.

Greenhouse and State Hospital personnel ask that those who attend wear masks and practice social distancing.

“This is the largest selection of plants we’ve ever had,” Martin said. “We have annuals, perennials, vegetables, ferns, hanging baskets, herbs, and houseplants.”

There are also benefits for the volunteers.

The mission for the Allegheny Community Greenhouse is to provide an educational learning center, a therapeutic activity for people and an indoor classroom for people of all ages. “We’re always looking for more help,” Martin said.

Times Observer photo by Brian Ferry Greenhouse Volunteer Dave Martin waters the plants on Friday.