Duckworth and Matsui Join Forces to Reduce Hunger and Improve Health Through Community Gardening

Press Release

U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth (D-IL), whose family relied on food stamps in her youth, introduced a resolution today during Hunger Action Month to reduce hunger and improve health around the country by promoting community gardens and the positive impacts they have on local communities. The resolution, if passed, would designate a National Community Gardening Awareness Week during the last week of September to support the gardens nationwide. Congresswoman Doris Matsui (CA-06) introduced a companion resolution in the House of Representatives.

"Community gardens are an important -- but too often overlooked -- asset for communities that help people around the country lead better, healthier lives," said Duckworth. "Americans of all backgrounds benefit from the shared sense of community these gardens foster and the positive impacts they have on nearby residents, including reducing hunger and improving access to healthy, nutritious foods. We should support and encourage their expansion throughout our nation."

"Too often, families don't have access to fresh and healthy food where they live," said Congresswoman Doris Matsui. "Community gardens provide needed sources of nutrition, help reduce hunger, and promote sustainability in public spaces. A National Community Gardening Awareness Week would support cities and localities that are expanding these essential spaces to help foster healthy futures."

If enacted, the new National Community Gardening Awareness Week would recognize and support the impact community gardens have on their communities: increasing access to fresh and healthy produce, helping reduce hunger and sustain local food banks, creating a more livable environment and improving resident quality of life.

Source