By DAVID TUMA
The Belton Journal
Founded in 2017 by Robert and Margaret Chadwick, Eldred’s Nursery Foundation sells trees, shrubs, plants, and flowers. They are a non-profit job training facility for persons with disabilities.
“We are reaching out to connect with residents and businesses differently. We sell wood products, candles, and pottery in addition to plants. We have some macrame plant holders. These items are sold on consignment. Temple College began a ceramic class that makes potted plant holders. This fall we will be working with UMHB’s ceramic department. Part of the revenue generated goes to the students who produce items on consignment,” said Margaret Chadwick.
93 Nursery and Landscape Supply started purchasing plants for Eldred’s. In the past, Robert would have to drive to Stephenville and Austin to purchase plants, trees, and shrubs.
“We will eventually supply 93 Nursery with smaller things we plant. FIKES Foundation and the Bell County Master Gardeners have supported us over the years,” said Chadwick.
Eldred’s has supplied the Downtown Belton Business Alliance (10) and City of Belton (3) with planters and plants you see downtown. Eldred’s maintains the planters year-round. There is a plan in place to provide 18 hanging plants around downtown.
“This fall we plan on hosting a job training skills session at Grand Avenue Theater. There may be some co-events at the theater. This spring we worked with 35 students with disabilities. We need more support to maintain and keep this program going,” said Chadwick.
“People supporting each other is what we are about. That is the way small towns work.” Eldred’s can be reached by email at rmchadwick025@yahoo.com.
