PHOTO: Courtesy Network for a Healthy California — Gold Country Region
By Macellina Amonoo, B.S.
Program Coordinator – African American Campaign
Network for a Healthy California – Gold Country Region
The Network for a Healthy California – African American Campaign and the Health Education Council have teamed up with Life Matters Inc. to kick off the first phase of an urban plantar box community garden in North Sacramento, where residents will have free access to grow and pick seasonal fruits, vegetables and herbs.
In California, 67 percent of African American adults are overweight or obese and suffer disproportionately from preventable health problems.
The Network for a Healthy California and the Health Education Council are committed to being part of the solution to end chronic health diseases that disproportionately affect African American communities and we’re starting with small changes that make big differences! This free event was open to the public and included a food demonstration by celebrity Chef Nikki Shaw and garden education with Bill Maynard. We also offered FREE health screenings, gardening education, healthcare information, music, and fun activities for the kids.
The Network ads, titled “Legacy of Health” and “Traditions,” reach the African American community and empower African Americans to build a legacy of healthier cooking and eating that parents, grandparents and other family role models can pass down with pride.
Many thanks to our sponsors including: The Network for a Healthy California, Health Education Council, Life Matters Inc., Sacramento Convention and Visitors Bureau, Health Net, Home Depot, Green Acres, Valley High School, and Kuhtz-Diehl.