Work First Community Garden Project

About the Program

Category: Human Services (Best in Category)

Year: 2010

The idea for the Work First Community Garden Project was developed in response to a concern for county residents trying to make ends meet within the distressed economic climate of McDowell County. Employees of the McDowell County Department of Social Services recognized the need to meet basic needs within the community. The obvious need reflected in the increased numbers of Food and Nutrition applications, along with the agricultural history of the county, evolved into plans for a Work First Community Garden. This would be a community garden where anyone could help plant crops and share in the harvest. In addition to food provided for county residents, it was determined that the goal of the project would be to revitalize gardening and promote healthier lifestyles through improved nutrition and increased physical activity. Additionally, it was hoped the project would create opportunities to learn marketable skills among the Work First Family Assistance Participants who would serve as the primary labor force. The garden would be a way to bring back the art of gardening, harvesting and food preservation while developing stronger community partnerships. By the end of the season, the small group that formed the initial planning group could say that the project has been a success, as the Work Force Family Assistance participation rate increased, participants were hired by local employers and disabled clients worked on craft projects for the garden.