Fresh food accessibility can be minimal when operating on a limited budget.  This can be especially true without knowledge of how to properly grow and prepare fresh food products.  Residents of the Franklin Housing Authority expressed an interest in learning more about growing fresh vegetables, proper gardening techniques and utilization of fresh vegetables in recipes.  

In response, the Simpson County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources and Simpson County NEP Assistant worked together to receive the NEP School and Community Garden Grant in the amount of $1,500.  After working with staff at the Housing Authority, a location, desired plants and number of families served was decided upon. Along with additional resources, the grant was used for Extension employees to purchase materials and soil to construct raise bed gardens.  Some of the raised beds were also constructed by University of Kentucky Master Gardener Volunteers.  These raised beds along with a small tilled area will be utilized to demonstrate how to properly grow fresh vegetables in small spaces based on University of Kentucky recommendations. Residents will learn about the need for soil testing, how to construct and plant raised beds and details of properly planning, maintaining, harvesting and preparing their own vegetables.  

Participants consist of twelve families that live in the Franklin Housing Authority.  Following the garden project, participants will enjoy self-fulfillment from growing their own vegetables and eating healthier while stretching their food dollar.