After the COVID-19 pandemic caused a nationwide shutdown in the spring of 2020, my family started an urban garden in our backyard fearing an economic collapse. We witnessed first-hand the demand and cost of fresh produce dramatically increase leaving limited options for our family. I refer to our small backyard urban garden as "Graham's Garden", which we named after our 2 & 1/2 year old son.
DID YOU KNOW? Since the COVID-19 pandemic, the Atlanta Community Food Bank has seen a 3000% increase in inquiries seeking food assistance. The Food Bank is distributing 30-40% more food each week compared to the same period last year. You can read stories of hunger, why hunger is a crisis of community, and how it affects us all on the Atlanta Community Food Bank's website.
As the pandemic continues to negatively impact minorities and people of color, I founded grow dudas, LLC in January 2021 to lead by example and
"Be the Change You Want to See in the World".
GOALS:
grow dudas aims to expand access to nutritious foods for residents located in low-income/low-access (LILA) communities (i.e. food desserts) within the metro Atlanta area.
We aim to serve residents with local and fresh fruits, vegetables, herbs, and flowers regardless of budget.
We also aim to serve residents through a number of community engagement and outreach activities such as:
GROW our own Program
This program is designed to teach residents of all ages how to grow their own food, herbs or flowers. What's included?
Grow Kits (just add dirt & water)
Step-by-step instructions for beginners
Virtual & Local events (i.e. Urban Farm tour(s))
GROW playbook agency Program
This program is designed for babies, toddlers, kids and young adults (under 16 years old) to serve communities in need. grow dudas will foster community engagement in urban farming and sustainable food systems. What's included?
Events hosted at local Parks (Fulton County)
Mentors: Green Jobs & STEM Careers
Urban Farm Internships
Volunteer opportunities
We are learning as we GROW so check back often for updates. If you are interested in learning more about our mission and how you can support, visit www.growdudas.com, like our page on Facebook (@growdudasLLC), & follow us on Instagram @grow_dudas to watch us GROW!
XoXo,
Diana
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