Over the past few weeks, juniors Sofia Lee & Patrick De Meulder have created an initiative to aid Ridgecrest Senior Housing in their effort to build their “Garden of HOPE”. With this project, Ridgecrest is attempting to beautify their grounds for the summer months. During the COVID-19 Pandemic, the residents are unable to gather inside, so if the outside spaces are improved, then the residents can have a nice and manicured place for which to spend time. This can improve morale and get the seniors more active. But, with this being a large undertaking in buying and installing benches, purchasing plants, and paving walkways, Ridgecrest needs support for the community. As a result, Lee and De Meulder stepped up and created Ridgewood Backyard Blooms.
To raise money for their project, Ridgewood Backyard Blooms is selling small flower arrangements to members of the community. The flowers for the “Blooms” come from the backyards of residents and local shops. Each arrangement can be customized with a personal message for loved ones as well as an additional “mini sign” for graduations, birthdays, and more! They range from $10-12 and all proceeds are donated to support Ridgecrest’s “Garden of HOPE.” Additionally, Lee and De Meulder have created a team of eight RHS students to help deliver the arrangements within town and local areas. These students have been instrumental in delivering orders to Ridgewood as well as Glen Rock, Wyckoff, Franklin Lakes, and Fair Lawn. (They are always looking for more people to help out, so if you are interested, email the team at rwoodbackyardblooms@gmail.com.)
So far the response from the community has been overwhelmingly positive. Lee and De Meulder have raised over $700 to date to support Ridgecrest’s “Garden of HOPE.” Those in the community have called the blooms “a lovely little surprise,” “so beautiful,” and “a great job for a wonderful cause.”
Sofia Lee & Patrick De Meulder
Graphics Chief, Staff Writer
Graphic: Sofia Lee