There are many ways to build self-esteem and positive coping skills of children and families in our community. Family Pride of Northeast Ohio, a local nonprofit organization that offers counseling and support services to children and families throughout northeast Ohio, utilizes a community garden project for children and families receiving services at the agency. Through the Digging Deeper Community Garden in Madison, agency team members work with children and family members to grow their own vegetables and plants, which improves the sense of responsibility for children, communication between family members, as well as offers a positive way to de-stress from daily life.
Avery Dennison, a global labeling and packaging corporation located in Lake County that strives to make a difference in their community, understands the importance of children’s mental health and provided support for the project. Through Avery Dennison’s Granting Wishes Program, Avery Dennison and Family Pride employees teamed up to expand Family Pride’s garden experiences for the upcoming planting season. Together the team was able to prep five additional garden plots for agency clients and families to work together on in spring of next year. Furthermore, as part of the program, a grant fund was awarded to the organization to support programs such as the agency’s community garden.
“It has been exciting to see the transformation in the children and families who have participated in this year’s gardening season. The knowledge and skills they have learned will be useful for them for years to come. It was very heartwarming to have the Avery Dennison employees come out and take a strong interest in helping our clients be happier and healthier,” says Sheryl Flanagan, a case manager at Family Pride and community garden project lead.
