In an effort to increase the consumption of healthy fruits and vegetables, the Cumberland County 4-H Program was awarded a $1000 grant from the Kentucky 4-H Foundation to support the Cumberland County 4-H Horticulture and Plant Science program and the Plant It, Grow It, Eat It Initiative. The funds are be used to incentivize youth to enroll in 4-H, and to try gardening, and eat more fruits and vegetables . 

The first 100 young people who enroll are provided with plants, soil analysis, seeds, and prizes. Throughout the program youth and families will receive assistance and educational materials. Extension staff will also demonstrate healthy recipes for families to try at home and a will grow a demonstration garden at the Extension Office. Participants will be able to learn the process of planting and growing crops, how to prepare food for consumption, and the value of family mealtime. 

Youth and families who do not have space for a garden will be given a small plot at the Extension Office and may use the Extension Office’s equipment. The program is open to any family in Cumberland County with youth who want to learn. The program will conclude in the fall of 2021