Gardening is a powerful activity on many levels, and can effective positive change for individuals and communities. It is integral to the solutions for a number of pressing issues. Currently on a national level, multiple federal agencies – including the US Department of Agriculture and the Centers for Disease Control - are working towards using gardening as a way to strengthen individuals and communities across the country.
Research has proven that home and community garden efforts may provide benefits across the board: improved academic performance for schools; reduced food costs for families; healthier environments for communities; reduced pollution and oil dependence; reduced health care costs; strengthened local economies (every dollar not spent on food or health care can be spent elsewhere); and improved food-security and nutrition for all.
Good nutrition is vital for the future success of our county. Nutrition is a critical component to a healthy life. Research shows that children in food insecure households are much more at risk of illness and developmental delays. Insufficient nutrition negatively impacts children’s ability to learn and grow. These children are more likely to experience irritability, fatigue, difficulty concentrating, problems with language, motor ability, social interaction and behavior. Research indicates these problems can last a lifetime. There are currently millions of children in the United States who are living in food insecure households, and thousands of food insecure children living in Ventura County.
