WORCESTER, Mass. - Community members in Worcester began building the Community Teaching Garden Literacy Program project site on Saturday.
The Indian Lake Community Association is putting it together with the help of Worcester Public Schools, the Regional Environmental Council, and Tower Hill Botanic Garden.
The goal of the project is to provide a living laboratory where students can learn about horticulture, plant science, food, and water insecurity.
The site will also include a small library which will help educate and advocate for the theme of the garden.
Organizers are hoping students can take the knowledge they learn and understand the impact on land use in the context of climate change, as well as how they can make a difference moving forward.
Indian Lake Community Association President Carl Gomes says, "The most challenging thing we face as a country and as a nation is the challenges of climate change. So what we're hoping is by having a hands-on experience and learning about food insecurity and water insecurity, all the things that are happening around the globe relative to climate, these children will become invested and they'll become youthful, global citizens."
Lowe's donated the garden beds, a local contractor will be donating soil, and the Carpenters Union Local 336 volunteered their time to construct the beds.
The garden will also include art installations, along with a blessings box which will include donated nonperishable food items, basic toiletries, and baby supplies.
They hope to have the garden started in mid-April.