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For Immediate Release |
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Thursday, April 12, 2012
Growing Healthy Community Garden Project
Looking for an activity to help reduce stress, increase flexibility, prevent illness and promote healthy nutrition?
Atlantic County invites non-profit organizations to begin growing healthy by participating in the second annual Growing Healthy: Atlantic County Community Garden Project, sponsored by the Atlantic County Division of Public Health and the Atlantic County Healthy Living Coalition to promote healthy communities through good nutrition and exercise.
“Community gardens not only help educate participants about gardening and good nutrition, but also provide an activity that is shown to supply health benefits, prevent illness and bring people together,” said Dennis Levinson, County Executive. “We hope to build upon last year’s success.”
In its inaugural year, 12 organizations participated and maintained 16 raised garden beds, mid-May through July, that yielded approximately 10,000 vegetables, including tomatoes, sweet peppers, hot peppers, zucchini, squash, eggplant, radishes and cucumbers. Produce was donated to the community through the Rescue Mission, Community Food Bank of New Jersey, the Women’s Center as well as local churches, an adult day care facility, a drug rehabilitation center and more.
Interested non-profit organizations are invited to attend an information session on Thursday, April 26 at 6:30 PM at the Atlantic County Park, Rt. 50, Estell Manor, where they will receive education materials and instruction and learn more about opportunities to grow healthy and delicious Jersey-fresh produce in the county's complimentary raised beds. All levels of gardening experience are welcome.
For more information, please contact the Atlantic County Division of Public Health at (609) 645-5853.
Click here for more information.
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