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Date: 04-25-2011

For More Info, Contact:

Dan Williamson, Mayor's Office, 614-645-5300

Hanna M. Greer, Franklin County,
614-525-5848

Brittany A. Thompson, Franklin County,
525-3354

Grants Awarded to Community Gardens in Time for Spring Planting

During Saturday's Earth Day celebrations at Franklin Park Conservatory, Franklin County Commissioner John O'Grady and Columbus Mayor Michael B. Coleman announced the organizations selected to receive support for community gardening projects this spring. Eighty three applications were submitted to the grant program established by Mayor Coleman and the Franklin County Commissioners.

"These gardens are beautifying our community while simultaneously providing access to fresh, local foods," said Mayor Coleman. "The support they are receiving is needed and well deserved."

"Each winning garden brings something different to their local community," said Commissioner Marilyn Brown. "These funds will be used to create new community gardens and to expand existing ones. Most importantly, this investment means that more people throughout Franklin County will have access to fresh and nutritious foods."

Of the 83 requests received, 60 awards were made. Awards included funding, in-kind product donations compliments of The Scotts Miracle-Gro Company, access to educational programming through the Franklin Park Conservatory or a combination thereof.

"Community gardens are promoting healthy, active lifestyles and creating new, productive uses of land in urban settings," said Councilmember Priscilla R. Tyson, chair of the Finance Committee for Columbus City Council. "I am proud of the effort on behalf of our neighborhoods and corporate partners to continue and expand this program."

"Community gardening enriches lives and strengthens neighborhoods. Gardening provides exercise and relaxation. The nutritious foods combat obesity and other adverse health conditions caused by deficient diets. By sharing work, time together and surplus foods, friendships are built, communities are strengthened, and family budgets are stretched a little bit further," said Commissioner Paula Brooks.

"These grant funded community gardens do more than just grow fresh produce," said Commissioner John O'Grady. "They are creating sustainable food sources that will educate and inspire our community for years to come."

Organizations receiving awards: