Growing Hope Announces the 2006 Community Garden Development Institute and Garden Assistance Grants

Thinking of growing together? The Community Garden Development Institute is a series of practical and hands on sessions for groups interested in starting and maintaining organic gardens in community settings. The four Thursday evening sessions of the Institute (March 9, 16, 23, 30 from 6:30-9:30 pm) will cover key aspects of developing and sustaining gardens, emphasizing how your garden team can effectively plan, start & maintain garden. Are you a part of a group ready to take the plunge and start a garden? Head to www.growinghope.net to download the applications for the class. Applications are due February 27th!

Additionally, groups comprised of or serving low-income residents within the Ypsilanti area may apply for a Garden Assistance Grant from Growing Hope to receive start up construction materials, consultation and additional support. An additional application is required and also available on our website. The Institute and Garden Assistance Grants are supported by a Michigan Dept of Community Health -- Washtenaw Steps Up grant, being facilitated locally through the Ypsilanti Health Coalition with support from Washtenaw County Public Health.

Do you know of or are part of a group that would like to learn more about what it takes to start a community or school garden? We'd love to make a presentation about the Institute, Growing Hope, and community gardens in general. Please get in touch!