Frederick A. Deluca Foundation Funds Third Season of Successful High School Leadership Initiative
Submitted by Kay Renz
The Pompano Beach CRA today announced that Fruitful Field, which manages the Patricia Davis Community Garden, has been awarded a $34,000 grant from the Frederick A. Deluca Foundation. This is the third year the nonprofit organization has received this funding which supports the GrowCity Youth Program. Applications for paid internships for this high school leadership program are due by September 30, 2020. Applications for the program are available by emailing Chris Reesor at Chrisr@thefruitfulfield.org
“We are honored to be the recipient of this grant and to be able to continue the important work of the GrowCity Youth Program,” said Chris Reesor, Executive Director of the Fruitful Field. “This very successful initiative offers at-risk students the opportunity to overcome the disadvantages imposed upon them by developing leadership and job market skills while serving the community.”
The Fruitful Field is a community-based organic garden established in 2008, providing fresh produce to the Broward County area. For every pound of produce that is sold, an equal amount is donated to local families and homeless in need.
In early 2018, the Pompano Beach CRA hosted the ribbon cutting ceremony for the Patricia Davis Community Garden, a one-acre parcel located next to Blanche Ely High School. Now, the garden, named for a Northwest CRA Advisory Committee member, is flourishing with collard greens, tomatoes, peppers, herbs, and beautiful flowers. Produce from the garden is sold in season at Pompano Beach Green Market; in addition, 40% of the harvest is donated to families in need through programs with the E. Pat Larkin Center, Blanche Ely High School Culinary Program, and the Blessings Food Pantry.
“We are thrilled that Fruitful Field will be able to continue their outstanding work with the youth in our community,” said Nguyen Tran, CRA Director. “The GrowCity Youth program provides so many benefits for its young participants including development of entrepreneurial skills, smart decision making, and a better understanding of healthy eating habits.”
The Patricia Davis Community Garden is located at 1089 NW 6th Avenue in Pompano Beach.
