Reps. Brown, Plaskett, and Carey Introduce Bipartisan Bill to Invest in Community Gardens

WASHINGTON – Today, Rep. Shontel M. Brown (OH-11) released the following statement after introducing the Thriving Community Gardens Act, with Representatives Stacey Plaskett (D-VI) and Mike Carey (OH-15).

"I'm thrilled to introduce the Thriving Community Gardens Act with my colleagues today. With this investment, schools and community organizations will gain another tool to combat food insecurity locally," said Rep. Brown. "The resources in this bill will enrich our young scholars' educational experience and help develop the next generation of urban and non-traditional farmers. Our students deserve more opportunities for self-discovery and building healthy relationships, while developing a stronger sense of pride in their schools and neighborhoods."

"I am proud to co-lead the Thriving Community Gardens Act with my friend and colleague Congresswoman Shontel Brown," said Rep. Plaskett. "The introduction of this legislation is timely as the Biden-Harris Administration holds the first White House Conference on Hunger, Nutrition, and Health in more than 50 years.   

Research shows that community gardens - in particular those located on school grounds - can address the public health agenda through community engagement and fulfill community needs, including enhanced food security, improved nutrition, and increased levels of physical activity. Community gardens are an especially important tool in regions that experience limited access to healthy and affordable food, including my district, the U.S. Virgin Islands. Over the past few years, my district staff has been working with non-profits and amongst ourselves to support community gardens and recognize their elevated significance in communities of color."

"I'm proud to co-lead the Thriving Community Gardens Act with Rep. Shontel Brown in an effort to inspire our communities to grow their own food and learn new skills," said Rep. Mike Carey. "Community gardens are a wonderful way to bring people together to teach them to thrive by developing healthy, self-sustaining habits."  

Background

The Thriving Community Gardens Act allows local educational agencies (LEAs) to use Student Success and Academic Enrichment Grants to develop and operate community gardens. Additionally, the bill directs the Department of Education to gather information from LEAs operating community gardens and publish best practices for other schools looking to develop their own community gardens. 

Community Gardens provide students and their families not only with access to information about healthy eating and living, but also with the skills needed to thrive in communities where food deserts and systemic barriers persist. Furthermore, community gardens enrich academic learning, and strengthen relationships through increased interactions among students, teachers, and volunteers. 

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