Nature's Abundance Garden School Program

My name is Anne Stabb and I am the founder of Nature's Abundance Garden School Program at Chester County Family Academy Charter School (K-2nd) in West Chester, PA.

With the support of the CEO, Susan Flynn, this program began in Spring 2014 and continued through this past summer. We held Family Nights once a week through July and August so that the familes could receive fresh fruit and veggies which were donated by the Chester County Food Bank.   As the families were gathering all of the fresh produce, I worked with the children 1:1 and in groups planting tomatoes, cilantro, lettuce, and annual flowers.  The activities also included discussion and story time.

CCFA's families are mostly low-income with limited opportunities outside of the classroom.  Many of the children (and their families) experience nature deficit.  For instance,  initially,  the parents were not very comfortable with their little ones having dirty finger nails. By the last Family Night, the parents were digging in the soil as well.  :)

I've recently received a certificate in School Garden Programming.  CCFA now has the template to expand this program.   However, what we are definitely in need of funding which will allow the program to become a formal part of the every day curriculum.  Nevertheless, until that officially occurs, the CEO, CCFA Staff, Chester County Food Bank and myself will continue to make it happen for the children and their families.

We are all firm believers that every child should have this opportunity!  We want our gardens to grow!