Youth and families will produce food, learn about ecology, and develop social ties through garden activities
This project addresses a community interest in urban agriculture and the environment. There are many 49th Ward residents who want to embrace gardening because of their cultural background, their interest in fresh, local food, and/or their appreciation of nature. However, many of these people lack the space or resources to create their own gardens. The Howard Area Community Center and Schreiber Park community gardens have waiting lists for a limited number of allotments.
– Produce nutritious food for themselves and their families
– Learn and exercise life skills such as planning and collaboration
– Teach children about the food they eat, from seedling to meal
– Learn about the care of plants and ecosystems
– Build bridges between cultures, ethnicities, generations, etc.
– Manageable size
– Exposure to sunlight
– Absence of conflict with existing park programs
– Support from advisory council, park staff