To help kids grow into confident individuals, a solid foundation and a lot of nurturing is key—much like tending to a garden. In 2018, Tampa community activists Jeanette Bradley and Diana Kyle rolled up their sleeves to make a difference in local schools. They started SEEDFOLKids After School Garden Experience, a free program through Bradley’s nonprofit, What We Could Be Exchange.
SEEDFOLKids offers hands-on gardening alongside lessons in agriscience, sustainability, entrepreneurship, and teamwork. Third and fourth graders get the chance to grow their own edible plants in raised beds. They also go on field trips and attend workshops led by guests. One highlight is Market Day, where students sell their produce, gaining confidence and a better connection to the food they eat and their environment.
This initiative has found a home in several Tampa schools, with Edison Elementary Community School being the first to host it. It’s still thriving there, and recently, the Zest team visited to chat with the students bringing the program to life.
Gardening programs like SEEDFOLKids are gaining traction. A 2022 study by the National Gardening Association showed a surge in youth gardening, highlighting its benefits, such as teamwork and environmental awareness. These initiatives are not just about plants; they foster community ties and empower the next generation.
For a closer look, check out the video tour of the SEEDFOLKids garden beds at Edison on the Zest Facebook or Instagram.
