WHEREAS, As an affiliate of the Pennsylvania Horticultural Society, the Neighborhood Garden Trust created Community Garden Day to call attention to the importance of acquiring and preserving community gardens and shared open spaces in order to enhance the quality of life in Philadelphia neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, It is valuable for a community to spotlight and celebrate Philadelphia's gardens, and to educate and engage citizens of all ages; and
WHEREAS, Since its re-launch in 2014, the goal of expanding its land preservation work from 34 to 100 gardens by 2016 shows the ambition of the Neighborhood Garden Trust and the emphasis that the nonprofit organization puts on the people of Philadelphia having access to these gardens; and
WHEREAS, Community gardens bring together not only gardeners, but community leaders, the nonprofit sector, City government, and philanthropy as well; and
WHEREAS, The different sizes, types, and locations of gardens, ranging from single house lots to 3.7 acres; from flower and vegetable gardens to sitting parks; from low-to-moderate income neighborhoods, all allow for variation among participation and uses; and
WHEREAS, A day to recognize Community Gardens will welcome in visitors to tour, participate in work days, and to learn about the benefits that community gardens bring to our neighborhoods with demonstrations on topics such as organic growing, composting and green storm water management, all of which bring together communities and families; now, therefore, be it
RESOLVED, BY THE COUNCIL OF THE CITY OF PHILADELPHIA, That this June 20th will be recognized as Community Garden Day in Philadelphia.
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