Applications Due: October 15, 2008
Statistics show that in many U.S. classrooms you’ll find children who are overweight sitting next to others wondering where their next meal will come from; many are not getting the right balance of nutrients in their diets or enough exercise. Research conducted at Texas A&M University supports the connection between kids’ food gardens and improved nutrition. Could a school garden be part of the solution to the diet- and exercise-related challenges children face? Many forward-thinking educators and parents think so, and have worked to create youth garden programs that focus on nutrition and hunger issues.
As a way to encourage the growth of health-focused youth gardens, NGA recognizes outstanding programs via the Healthy Sprouts Awards, sponsored by Gardener’s Supply Company. (http://www.gardeners.com/) These awards support school and youth garden programs that teach about nutrition and the issue of hunger in the United States.
Eligibility and Application Process
To be eligible for the 2008 Healthy Sprouts Awards, your school or organization must plan to garden in 2009 with at least 15 children between the ages of 3 and 18. The selection of winners is based on the demonstrated relationship between the garden program and nutrition and hunger issues in the United States.
This year we will present awards to 20 schools or organizations. Each program will receive:
Applications must be postmarked no later than October 15, 2008. DOWNLOAD AN APPLICATION -http://kids.garden.org/grantInquiry.php?grant=HS08
