??A garden is blooming again at the East Lake Academy of Fine Arts! ?? What were unused beds this time last year, are now filled with cabbage, broccoli, tomatillos, and more. Mr. Deonte Jackson, a 6th grade math teacher, guides students through every step of the growing process. Everything they harvest goes to students, families and staff. East Lake Academy is located in a food desert which was recently made even worse by the closing of the nearby Food City. In this area, 25.7% people are food insecure, nearly double the rate for Hamilton County overall. The school was recently awarded a $25K grant through the Hamilton County Health Department, which will be used to enhance their outdoor spaces, including much-needed upgrades to the garden! The school's garden is part of our Garden Network, along with 20+ other community, school, and church gardens throughout our service area. We are proud to support their efforts and look forward to seeing the garden and school community grow together!
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