Food is a common concern for people every where and concerted action to meet the food needs of the growing population in this planet is evident every where at government as well as community levels. Besides the safety of foods raised through modern agricultural technologies is often questioned forcing at least some people to think of radical alternatives. One such effort is manifested by the promoters of Community Gardens in many countries. Though such programs have no government sanction, they nonetheless thrive in many communities across the world. Organizers of these gardens are mostly from the local community and they consider themselves as part of a movement of farmers, parents, students, persons of faith, community gardeners and health advocates. They seem to be united by the idea that all members of the community should have access to food grown in a way that promotes the health of people, planet as a whole and the community to which they belong, food being the binding force that ties them together. Here is a typical example of a garden community in the US which has a good track record in serving the interests of local people.
"The gathering is an opportunity to learn more about the upcoming grant program that will provide funding to start new and expand existing community gardens through $500 to $1,000 mini-grants. Additional funding will be available to support the start of inter-generational gardening teams. This special program promotes the partnership of seniors, 55 years and older, and youth, from 15 to 21 years old, to combine forces to explore community gardening. Funding for inter-generational gardening is structured through a 16-month paid stipend. Additionally, youth involved in the inter-generational garden program will be appointed to Nashville's new youth food policy council. Grant applicants are encouraged to attend the 2nd annual Nashville Community Garden Tour, hosted by the Community Food Advocates, Saturday, September 25th from 8 am to 3 pm, at over 15 neighborhood-led gardens throughout Davidson County. This year's theme – We're Still Standing – celebrates the enduring nature of Nashville and its community gardens".
The Community Food Advocates, the organization which is spearheading the program provides even up to $2,000 stipends to adults aged 55 and older and youths between the ages of 15 and 21 who take part in the inter-generational community garden programs which is managed by a coordinator. According to their plans at least 10 teams of senior citizens and youngsters are to be formed that will reduce the barriers in the community by providing opportunities for working together. The commitment and dedication of these voluntary organizations need to be appreciated because of the extent to which they go for providing sites for gardens and a workable plan of action for a period of about 16 months. How far such programs will be effective in meeting the food needs of the community is a moot question but it will definitely sensitize the members regarding the dynamics of agriculture and its impact on health. It is doubtful whether such a program will ever be possible in India where private lands will never be offered for public gardening. But there are millions of acres of public land lying fallow and some of the active NGOs can try out this approach for better community harmony in some areas by utilizing these lands for limited scale gardening with government concurrence.
V.H.POTTY
http://foodtechupdates.blogspot.com
No comments:
Post a Comment