Hempstead, NY - July 30, 2016 - Hempstead residents and NYCC members will celebrate “grand opening” of community garden at Kennedy Park in Hempstead.  Hempstead residents starting green revolution in Hempstead. Community garden hopes to be the beginning of a community garden movement in Hempstead.

Attending the event includes Hempstead residents, New York Communities for Change and Deputy Mayor Luis Figueroa. The event takes place on Saturday, July 30, 2016 at 11 AM at Kennedy Park, located at 335 Greenwich Avenue, Hempstead, NY 11550 (next to pool at Kennedy Park).

Numerous studies repeatedly prove that adults and children participating in community garden consume more fruits and vegetables that do not. Community gardens also have the potential to decrease the barriers to consuming fruit and vegetables in low-income communities. Community garden enhanced nutrition curriculum improves the nutrition knowledge of children and their preference for some vegetables. Community gardens are also one way residents can beautify low income neighborhoods, improve access to fresh produce and engage youth. Gardens also help in addressing the problems associated with vacant lots and blight.