21% of adults in the United States are illiterate in 2022. 54% of adults have a literacy below sixth-grade level. 21% of Americans 18 and older are illiterate in 2022. Per the National Literacy institute.

With family farms on the decline less than 2% of the United States population contribute to the food systems and at least two generation from the family farm. (Per the USDA) People are not aware of where their food comes really comes from. The future of agriculture and food production depends on the youth. Raising agriculture awareness for our community is very important to our future. Hands on learning is the perfect way to get children excited about agriculture and create a better understanding of where our food comes from. 

Metcalfe County Extension staff and Metcalfe County Family Resource teamed up for literacy night at Metcalfe County Elementary Farming, Fitness and Reading.

The youth and families were able to learn how to grow healthy fruits and vegetables How to be more active and read a long the way.

A reading garden have been developed from an Ag Mini Grant. Metcalfe County Extension Staff made it possible for all youth to plant bean seeds in a cup to take home. The Students have the opportunity to care for the growing plants and reap and taste the harvest. 

Sixteen parents have followed up and reported that plans are doing well, youth are being more active and they plan family time during the week.

 We had a total of 465 to attend, 174 parents, 222 students, 57 staff and 12 volunteers.