Kids’ Stuff: Subaru Adopt a School Garden Program

The National Gardening Association (NGA) is pleased to announce the 2009 Subaru Adopt a School Garden Program. Funded by a generous grant from the Subaru of America Foundation, Inc., nine schools in southern New Jersey will be selected to receive technical assistance, horticultural and garden education consultation, and $1,000 in materials and funding to lay the foundation for their garden program.

"The Subaru Adopt a School Garden Program is a natural fit for Subaru, given its dedication and commitment to environmental initiatives," said Tom Doll, president of Subaru of America Foundation, Inc. "Providing our youth with opportunities to explore and learn about the importance of being environmental stewards is a key priority in our philanthropic activities."

"There is no doubt that gardens are powerful educational tools, providing opportunities for children to experience the natural world as they develop academic skills and gain first-hand knowledge that leads to healthy and sustainable lifestyles," says Mike Metallo, president of the National Gardening Association. "We have a responsibility to our children to give them opportunities to engage with nature in a safe setting. School gardening programs can help children understand where their food comes from, what impact their decisions have on the world's resources and the world's climate, and how they can live sustainability. This makes garden programs so important for young people."

Elementary, middle, and high schools serving low to middle income students located in the following southern New Jersey counties are eligible: Burlington, Camden, Cumberland, Gloucester, and Salem Counties, with preference given to Burlington and Camden Counties. Educators should be planning to use the garden to teach students life skills, reinforce academics, develop environmental stewardship, and encourage students to make positive choices for themselves and the planet. Applications must be postmarked by February 1, 2009, and award winners will be announced by March 1, 2009. For full details and to download an application, please visit kidsgardening.org/grants.asp