Dover — Eighteen Delaware urban agriculture and community garden projects are receiving support through a second round of funding designed to strengthen communities and improve nutrition.

The partnerships that have developed at the local and state around urban agriculture and community gardening have really helped to transform Delaware communities. The grants awarded this year totaled $27,671.74, with $17,671.74 from Delaware Department of Agriculture. New Castle Conservation District pledged the additional $10,000 match for New Castle County sites.

“We are extremely grateful for these grants,” said Mary Steppi a volunteer with Elsmere Community Garden who received a grant last year. “These gardens fill a niche by providing fresh produce to people who do not have transportation to farmers’ markets. Our garden serves young and old, long-time residents, and a diverse mix of families. It really brings the community together, encourages people to get out and get active and meet people while giving back to the neighborhood.”

This year’s recipients include community groups, religious institutions, schools, and other organizations. The funds for these projects will help purchase supplies, seeds, plants, and minor equipment to enhance current projects or new initiatives.

This year’s recipients include:
>Department of Children, Youth and Their Families, Wilmington, $2,000
>William Penn High School, New Castle, $2,000
>Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware – New Castle County, $1,000
>Connections CSP, Inc., Wilmington, $2,000
>Duffy’s Hope Inc., Wilmington, $2,000
>Conscious Connection Inc., Wilmington, $2,000
>Lombardy Parent Teacher Association (PTA), $2,000
>City of Delaware City, Delaware City, $1,000
>Good Shepherd Lutheran Church, Wilmington, $2,000
>Resurrection Parish, Wilmington, $2,000
>Freire Charter School Wilmington, Wilmington, $2,000
>St. Marks United Methodist Church, Wilmington, $2,000
>Wesley College and Restoring Central Dover Community Garden, $1,000
>Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware – Kent County, $1,000
>Dover First Christian School, Dover, $671.74
>LEADelaware Class IV/Kent Community Gardens, Milford, $1,000
>Boys & Girls Clubs of Delaware – Sussex County, $1,000
>Rehoboth Art League, Rehoboth Beach, $1,000

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Media Contact: Stacey Hofmann, 302-698-4542, stacey.hofmann@delaware.gov

Wilmington, DE – In his weekly message, Governor Markell highlights the benefits of locally grown products and the positive impact they have on our families, our farmers and our state.

“From poultry and livestock, to fruits and vegetables, to soybeans and other crops, Delaware’s agricultural community is as vibrant as ever,” Governor Markell said. “Purchasing locally-produced fruits and vegetables and the community garden movement will help our families grow healthy and strong, ensuring that our farmers continue to thrive, and grow the state’s economy. And that will keep Delaware moving forward.”

Every week, the Governor’s office releases a new Weekly Message in video, audio, and transcript form. The message is available on:

YouTube: https://youtu.be/gM58cp91fQ0
Delaware.Gov:http://governor.delaware.gov/podcast_video.shtml
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Transcript of the Governor’s Weekly Message: Ensuring Our Agriculture Industry Thrives