Safe Parks and Edible Playgrounds

SICM is one of only 21 faith-based coalitions across the country (from Guam
to Massachusetts) that was awarded a two-year grant from the Robert Wood Johnson Foundation (RWJF) to prevent childhood obesity by increasing access to healthy foods and physical activity through community advocacy. SICM’s “Safe Parks and Edible Playgrounds” will advance community policies and environmental changes to improve access to safe places to play for area children and establish “Edible Playgrounds" (gardens for and by children). This project will be coordinated by Rev. Van Stuart. Noting that faith-based coalitions have been at the forefront of local and state efforts on social issues such as homelessness and hunger and poverty, RWJF is optimistic about these groups advocating for improved food, nutrition and environmental policies. SICM will be enhancing coalitions with other interested neighborhood groups such as Weed & Seed, ACORN, and the Hamilton Hill Arts Center. A key partner in the project will be Roots& Wisdom, a youth agriculture and community service program, bringing together Schenectady County youth and committed adults to grow organic vegetables for donation to local food pantries and for sale within the county.

Safe Parks and Edible Playgrounds Newsletter, PDF document. Download