Reaping the Benefits

When the Single Parent Family Program in Waxahachie grew a garden over the summer, families on the PCHAS campus reaped more than fruits and vegetables.   

Kandi Shaw, senior coordinator of the program, says that the moms “like the opportunity to show their kids where food really comes from” and “bonding time” with their children. “Our purpose is not only to teach healthy living and nutrition, but also help parents teach their kids the value of nurture and care for something else,” Shaw explains. 

Families are excited to eat foods they have actually grown. “One mother was overjoyed when we had some good-sized squash and zucchini,” Shaw recalls. “She and her daughter made a salad and fried zucchini together.” 

One seven-year-old is very proud of his tomatoes. He remembers which plants were his and checks on them every day. Like the other children, he is surprised there were many different species of tomatoes.  

The shared garden includes strawberries, cantaloupe, watermelon and peppers. Families also enjoy tending their marigolds and measuring themselves against the sunflowers that are taller than the cottages.  

“This garden gives our families a sense of community and a common goal,” Shaw says. “It is a great opportunity to promote health, community, learning and nurturing.”