As part of a nationwide effort to support local initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles, the PA Beverage Association today announced a $5,000 contribution to “Green Up to Grow Up Pittsburgh.”

The contribution will help launch Mayor Luke Ravenstahl’s “Edible Gardens” program, which will improve the availability of healthy foods in low-income Pittsburgh neighborhoods where access to affordable fresh produce is scarce.  Volunteers in the Edible Gardens program will harvest and distribute nearly one ton of produce to at least 200 families in its first year.

"We are extremely grateful to the American Beverage Foundation for its support of Green Up Pittsburgh: Edible Garden's mission to help families eat fresh, healthy food," Ravenstahl said. "Our residents are amazing volunteers who have worked hard to transform vacant lots and mentor young people, and this initiative encourages them to play an active role in creating healthier lifestyles at home and in our communities."

Tony Crisci, executive director of the PA Beverage Association, said the beverage industry is committed to giving back to communities where their employees live and work and to supporting initiatives that promote healthy lifestyles.

“Mayor Ravenstahl’s “Green Up Pittsburgh” initiative has successfully transformed vacant lots into green space that reduces blight, inspires pride and promotes environmental stewardship,” said Crisci.  “Our contribution will help the Mayor and other committed Pittsburghers further transform these spaces to grow fresh produce that will be made available to City residents.  Our members are thrilled to be part of this initiative.”

Edible Gardens volunteers will plant 10 to 15 high-yielding vegetable and fruit gardens across the City of Pittsburgh and work with the City’s Green Team to create, design and plant produce. Community garden stewards will be responsible for maintenance, weeding, harvesting and distribution throughout the season.

Through the “Green Up to Grow Up Pittsburgh” program, youths will be invited to volunteer on the planting days to learn the basics of vegetable gardening and encouraged to participate in the maintenance throughout the growing season, offering them a valuable learning experience and creating a sense of community.

Young residents will be invited to participate in healthy eating seminars and healthy food challenges, and younger students will have the opportunity to engage in fun, food-related games and learning activities created by local organizations that encourage them to pay attention to the foods they consume daily.

Students will also have the opportunity to take gardening classes and learn how to grow their own healthy foods and incorporate those foods into their meals.

The gardens, which will be in neighborhoods within the City limits that are designated food deserts, will give families access to locally grown produce.  It also includes other elements that promote healthy lifestyles, including meal planning, exercise programs and other efforts to combat the obesity epidemic.

4/29/2013