Urban Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program - Education (USNAP-Ed) Community Garden Project

Abstract

As part of our Policy, System and Environmental (PSE) efforts, the aim of the Urban Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program – Education (USNAP-Ed) Community Gardening Project through the Urban Unit of Alabama Cooperative Extension System at Alabama A&M University, was to improve access and availability of fresh produce and to build self-efficacy of citizens within limited resource communities to take control of their health and make positive changes. Limited resource communities. According to the 2015 Behavior Risk Factor Surveillance Survey (BRFSS) data, 27.6% of Alabamians reported eating vegetables less than one time a day. Community gardens are associated with increased vegetable consumption. USNAP-Ed Community Project Garden sites were identified through participation in USNAP-Ed nutrition classes. USNAP-Ed staff provided nutrition lessons and coordinated garden efforts between the program and the sites. Alabama Cooperative Extension System Horticulture staff provided instruction and assistance establishing gardens, explaining gardening concepts, and monitoring garden development. Crops planted included, cucumbers, collards, tomatoes, onions, green beans, zucchini, squash, corn, carrots, lettuce, peppers, and radish. Harvested produce was used within participant homes, or donated to low income residents in the surrounding area. Six garden sites were established in Madison, Morgan, and Lawrence Counties, with a total of 26 raised bed gardens constructed. A total of 889 pounds of produce was harvested and utilized within the homes of local limited resource families. Sustainability plans were implemented at five sites to continue the use of the garden. The USNAP-Ed Community Garden Project was well received by the communities and improved access to fresh produce. The project will continue in the next grant year.