The somewhat mystical power of food becomes more and more apparent as we delve deeper in the following projects. Food really does bring us together at a deep, core level. It is one of the true commonalities that we all have. There is a noticably different tenet to a conversation over food. This is why, in many ways, local food is so critical to building strong communities.

We are involved in community gardens and nutrition education directly. We are also poised to play an even larger role as opportunities arise. For example, we are in high-level discussions with other committed individuals to initiate a community center in an area of North Carolina that will not only support local food production and distribution but also serve as a meeting place to hold both formal and informal meetings and training events. Food truly is a necessary thread to any strong community.

Current Programs:

• Community Gardens and Entrepreneurs

  In order to increase access to fresh local food in 2010, Partners has organized a new community garden in Wendell, NC. Maggie Castor, Director of Nutrition Programs for Partners For Strong Communities is currently working together with The Social Ministry Group of St Eugene's Church on this effort. Church and community volunteers will donate their time, talent and resources in order to make the Garden a success. Most of the food that is harvested from the Garden will stay in the community to feed people who otherwise may not have access to fresh fruits and vegetables. Classes will be held on basic nutrition and a program that will teach "real world" agricultural and entrepreneurial skills to local community members.

  The goals of the program are: Teach nutrition and entrepreneurial skills that provide local community members with an access to fresh affordable food and the skill-set to create their own garden and Food-to-Market businesses. Programs like this are at the forefront of a burgeoning movement that replaces huge industrialized food systems with smaller sustainable agricultural practices.

  Contact Maggie Castor to learn how you can participate in this program, or to start one in your community. maggiecastor@partners101.org

• "The Veggie Lady" Mobile Nutrition Education Program

  Partners for Strong Communities launched a Mobile Nutrition Education Program in November, 2009, in an effort to help elementary school students understand the importance of eating their fruits and vegetables. "The Veggie Lady" is Maggie Castor, who is heading up Partners for Strong Communities Nutrition Programs. The Veggie Lady leads elementary-aged students in creating "vegetable super heroes," a fun and creative way to introduce children to a wide variety of vegetables. This concept is similar to the premise of the popular new ABC television series, Jamie Oliver's Food Revolution. Maggie and Jamie both agree that many children today have trouble identifying a tomato on sight, and that is something that can be changed, one community school at a time.

  The "Veggie Lady's" Program Goal: Get the kids to eat right at a young age AND have fun doing it!

  Teacher comments: "Thanks for coming to my class and giving my students such a delightful lesson. The kids loved you. I will ask the other 4th grade teachers if they are interested in the Veggie People. It is such a great idea and you are such a natural teacher."
  Mary LaCombe, 4th Grade teacher, Middlesex Elementary, Nash County, Nov 2009

  Contact Maggie Castor to learn more about this program. maggiecastor@partners101.org