Community gardens bring people together from various backgrounds, regardless of age, race, culture and social class.
Along with the fresh produce that is available throughout the year, the gardens connect people and foster a sense of unity and achievement.
The people who meet in these community gardens usually form networks among groups that would not normally meet through other channels.
The provision of fresh and pesticide free produce is a major benefit. This might even mean that some people have access to healthy, fresh, cheap food that would otherwise not be affordable to them.
It also gives anyone visiting the garden an opportunity to sample foods that they have never tried before.
The educational value is unmeasurable…you can learn how to build a simple worm farm with recyclable materials, how to gather free compost ingredients to start your garden beds, and participate in the exchange of a seeds with other members.
The ultimate benefit is to be part of creating a sustainable food producing area for future generations.
Many studies prove that people who raise kids in community gardens eat more healthfully.
In an age where obesity is even now affecting children, this makes a huge difference in the overall health of a society, not to mention the cost saving on both food purchases and health care.
Gardening by nature is a physical activity and can improve your overall health.
Being in a green space has been proven to reduce stress, and anxiety, lower blood pressure and increase your sense of wellness.
Just breathe in that fresh air and sunshine and feel yourself relax.
A farmers market is quite often attached to a community garden and this can draw out many people, products and services that will benefit both individuals and the environment.
These market days can be a grand social event, like back in the day when everyone met in town when they went in for supplies periodically.
This is also an opportunity to get to know what is available in your very own community, save money and reduce your carbon footprint.
If you would like to know more about the upcoming FRESH PRODUCE commUNITY market, commencing in September; either as a stall-holder or to hold a workshop; contact us through facebook or call Georgie on 0428413567.
