The American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry stated that between 16 and 33 percent of children and adolescents in the United States are obese. A lack of proper nutrition may contribute to obesity. In certain low income communities the availability of fresh produce is limited and often, the fresh produce that is available is costly and the quality of the food is low. Meanwhile, in these low income communities fast food restaurants and convenience stores are readily available and easily accessed.
Having children involved in creating and planting a garden will give them more exposure to fresh fruits and vegetables, and will help them gain a more positive attitude about fresh vegetables. Once they become familiar with fresh vegetables they are more likely to eat them, thus, providing their bodies with a greater source of nutrition. Gardening will increase their self esteem and sense of accomplishment when they see their planted seeds grow into fruits and vegetables. Making healthy food choices can help to reduce the rate of obesity, and working in groups can also improve their decision making and communication skills.
Due to the rise in food costs, these sustainable container gardens may be a way to offset the cost of groceries for low income families.
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We will also use these garden containers to improve the quality of life for various low income communities and individuals. Gardening can be used to improve one’s physical, mental, and emotional well being as well as social skills. When people become aware that they can grow their own fruits and vegetables their self confidence will improve. This increase in self confidence will help them to feel more comfortable in other areas of their lives. Now they will feel that they can also accomplish other things that have previously been seen as impossible for them to do.
Individuals will interact with their environment and other people through gardening. This will bring about a change in the way individuals perceive their surroundings. Gardening provides a way for people to participate in a group activity that will increase communication and improve social skills. People will not feel so isolated because they are building relationships, and the expectation of the harvest will keep them motivated as they watch the garden grow and appreciate the fruits of their combined efforts.
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God bless you for donating to His Garden Ministries. You are helping us to provide container gardens for low income communities and individuals in low income communities. This will not only change, but improve their lives. Thank you for your prayers and support. Your gift is tax-deductible.