Velasco Elementary

There are 3 primary goals of our community garden. The first goal is to provide the real life experience of preparing a garden site and growing plants from seeds or seedlings that will develop into edible produce (vegetables, herbs and fruits) for our students and their families. The second goal is to address a primary need of our families. Seven years ago a hurricane damaged our community and resulted in one grocery store closing its doors permanently. The remaining grocery store is located 3-4 miles from our students' homes. This is a short drive for some but for others without vehicles it is a long walk. As a result, most families choose to walk to the local dollar store (which does not sell fresh fruits or vegetables) for basic necessities & food. Produce from our community garden will help meet the nutritional needs of our students & their families. The third goal is to facilitate understanding of health/nutrition benefits of including fresh produce in our students' daily diets.