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The Press Enterprise :
http://www.pe.com/localnews/inland/stories/PE_News_Local_B_b2spot03.3dbe53b.html
Redlands youth gardening program wins grant
“A Redlands program designed to teach at-risk students to appreciate the outdoors while also building science and leadership skills has received a grant from the National Gardening Association. The garden is part of the Micah House II after-school program, which provides at-risk students with homework assistance, computer instruction and recreational activities. The nonprofit organization, which is a ministry of Trinity Church in Redlands, serves more than 50 students in elementary through high school. Students who have worked in the garden have reaped a number of benefits, according to Kathy Stinson, program coordinator at Micah House II.
“I can see a lot of growth in the kids,” Stinson said. “Gardening is a new experience for most of them and they seem to be getting a lot from it. They are getting some physical exercise, learning leadership and communication skills, learning science — so many things. It’s exciting to see.”
Stinson said the garden has been used to teach academic concepts. Students are encouraged to write about the garden’s development in journals. They measure plants and track their growth. Information on seed germination and other science topics have been discussed. The program has even encouraged some finicky young eaters to eat unfamiliar vegetables, Stinson said.
“We have children that have tried broccoli or eggplant for the first time,” Stinson said. “Some of them were hesitant to try it, but then I heard them asking if they could have more. That’s a wonderful thing to see.”
Call 909-747-0319 for more information on Micah House II or the garden.“
