Community garden funding provided to La. National Guard Youth Challenge Program

By Marco Molina, Youth Challenge Program and the Louisiana National Guard Public Affairs Office

CARVILLE, La. – The Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program at the Gillis W. Long Center has received a grant for a new community garden. Community Resources Connection, Inc has collaborated with the United States Department of Agriculture – Natural Resources Conservation Service to increase availability of local fresh fruits and vegetables within underserved communities. This collaboration supports the Department of Agriculture’s goal to feed all Americans.

Community garden awards were up to $10,000.00. The funding is used to purchase garden materials and supplies to establish a new community garden or expand an existing garden to feed more community members. Eligible community groups and organizations that have mutual interests and goals to increase access to local, fresh healthy foods and food choices were encouraged to apply.

The LANG Youth Challenge Program was one of thirteen community organizations to receive the funding.

Cadets and staff are dedicating their time and efforts to learn about gardening and harvesting fruits and vegetables fit to consume and donate to those that are eligible to receive them.

The mission of the Louisiana National Guard Youth Challenge Program is to intervene in and reclaim the lives of 16–18-year-old adolescents, producing program graduates with the values, life skills, education, and self-discipline necessary in order to succeed as productive citizens.