The COVID-19 Pandemic demonstrates the fragility of our food system. Although plenty of food is being produced, there is a bottleneck in distribution. As a result, Kentuckians are coming together to not only support local agriculture but also have an increased interest in growing their own food in home or community gardens. As a response to this interest, the Woodford County Horticulture and Family and Consumer Sciences Agent partnered to distribute Family Garden Kits, Container Garden Kits, and Seed Packets to families and community residents.

The kits provide the first time gardener with an easy way to experience the joy of home grown produce. The container garden kits were equipped with soil, seeds, and transplants plus growing instructions. These kits were distributed to low-income residents who live in apartments and don’t have the space for a traditional garden. All of the kits contained seeds as well as recipes, a calendar, farmer’s market shopping guide, cooking utensils, and more. 

Over 150 kits were distributed to community residents. This included over 500 seed packets that will produce fresh vegetables for families in a time of need. Not only will these kits help families stretch their food dollar, but they can serve as a positive family-inclusive activity by engaging family members of all ages in creating a garden. From a mental aspect, growing a vegetable garden can also be a way for families to gain a sense of security. 

Many families that received the kits have shared photos and reported that the gardens they created using these resources are doing very well. They have reported that their children are participating in planting and caring for the garden and will enjoy the produce when it is ready to harvest. This was a successful program and it brought new clientele to the extension office making them aware of our services.