Policy implications of community gardens

According to BRFSS data for North Carolina in 2005, 73% of black adults were overweight or obese. A community garden was piloted in New Hanover County, NC as a way to address obesity rates in low-income communities. Studies have shown people who grow their own food have a higher intake of fruits and vegetables (Carter & Mann, 2006). Furthermore, gardening provides recreational opportunities that may lead to a more active lifestyle.

Community gardens can help make low-income and minority communities healthier. Many community gardens involve factors important to health promotion in minority communities including social support, an emphasis on informal networks, and community organization (Armstrong, 2000). Urban agriculture in public housing can be a strategy for promoting community participation and social change. Two focus groups consisting of participants in the Wilmington Housing Authority Community Garden Pilot Project provided insight into the local impact of a community garden. Twenty-two black participants ranging in age from 11 to 80 expressed their enthusiasm for continuing the project, creating pride in the community, learning about gardening, and possessing the ability to provide themselves with nutritious foods.

Low-income communities would benefit from public policy focused on the funding and creation of community gardens. Both public and private funds could enrich communities through farmers' markets, nurseries, and composting facilities. Policies should allow for community ownership of the project and collaboration with local entities. Initiatives like the USDA Food Security program create the opportunity for more comprehensive responses linking low-income consumers to local produce growers.