Congressman Crowley Tours The New York Botanical Garden's Family Garden

Statement

On Saturday, August 7, Congressman Joseph Crowley (D-Queens, the Bronx) toured The New York Botanical Garden's Ruth Rea Howell Family Garden, an initiative to educate children and their families on the benefits of growing and preparing healthy food. During his visit, Congressman Crowley met with kids from the Children's Gardening Program, a unique, hands-on program that teaches children how to plant, tend to, harvest and eat their very own fresh produce. Congressman Crowley also joined families participating in the program to discuss the importance of healthy eating and nutrition education programs.

"Giving children the firsthand experience of growing their own fruits and vegetables can help them develop an appreciation for eating healthy foods throughout their entire lives," said Congressman Crowley. "Unfortunately, access to fresh produce and gardening space can be limited in urban areas such as the Bronx. The Botanical Garden has opened the door to fresh produce and the experience of gardening for families in our community, providing an invaluable opportunity to learn about the many benefits of growing and eating healthy foods."

Congressman Crowley has been a strong advocate of programs that provide access and resources to encourage healthy eating and living, including the seniors and Farmers Market Nutrition Programs, which allows urban residents, particularly seniors, to purchase fresh, regional produce. Congress is expected to soon consider improvements to many federal nutrition programs, including the school breakfast and lunch programs and the Women, Infants, and Children (WIC) nutrition program.

"Congressman Crowley understands the importance of educating and empowering our youth so that they can lead healthy and active lives. The recent rise in the levels of obesity and diabetes currently reported are staggering, particularly here in the Bronx," said Gregory Long, President and CEO of The New York Botanical Garden. "The New York Botanical Garden, thanks to the ongoing support of Congressman Crowley, will continue to provide children's gardening and nutritional education for our youth in the Bronx."

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