Success StoryGrowing Disability into Accessibility



Growing Disability into Accessibility

Author: Shelby Sipes

Planning Unit: Jessamine County CES

Major Program: Accessing Nutritious Foods (general)

Outcome: Intermediate Outcome

In Jessamine County, nutritious, affordable, and high quality food is out of reach for some—particularly in low-income senior citizen neighborhoods. With the help of several community partners, a community garden has flourished and nutrition education is in demand at Beacon Apartment Complex for seniors. By combining resources, Blue Grass Community Action, Kentucky AgrAbility, Jessamine County Extension Agent for Agriculture and Natural Resources, and the Supplemental Nutrition Education Program were able to provide disability inclusive garden plots and modified tools for residents. Along with the opportunity to grow their own produce, ten participants were able to engage in cooking demonstrations using their produce and attain knowledge on nutrition topics like MyPlate, food safety, meal planning, and budgeting. Once the program series was completed, participant surveys showed an 87% improvement in diet quality, 84% improvement in food safety practices, and an 89% improvement in food resource management. One participant commented, “I am looking forward to warmer weather so I can grow a variety of vegetables and pressure can the excess. I’ll be able to enjoy fresh vegetables all year long.”

 






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