A Healthy Communities Initiative, “Growing from the Ground Up,” will start on Wednesday, April 23, according to an announcement today from Mayor Mark Holland.
The event will begin at 5 p.m. at an urban garden site at 1045 Splitlog, Kansas City, Kan.
It is intended to let residents know about the program designed to reduce food deserts and increase access to fresh fruits and vegetables in Kansas City, Kan., through education and community gardens. Officials hope to attract volunteers for the program.
“This is a chance for us to finally start working the ground and getting our hands dirty,” Holland said. “I’m thrilled that with the warmer weather we’re able to start making visible progress on creating this sustainable garden and furthering education to our neighbors about the benefits of healthy foods grown in our own backyards.”
All interested persons are welcome to attend this informational event that will include speakers from the Unified Government and K-State Research and Extension Office as well as additional information on garden designs, growing tips, and community fellowship. Persons unable to attend but are still interested in volunteering are encouraged to call the mayor’s office at 913-573-5010 for more information.
“Growing from the Ground Up” is made possible by a $25,000 Cities of Service Impact Volunteering Fund Grant, funded by Bloomberg Philanthropies.
The Cities of Service model focuses on impact volunteering – volunteer strategies that target community needs, use best practices, and set clear, measurable outcomes to gauge progress. This initiative is fueled by the work of Community Housing of Wyandotte County, Inc., the K-State Extension Office, and the volunteers of the city.