Jericho Road Agricultural Project (JRAP)

In 2009, Center of Hope established a partnership with Toledo Grows through the Toledo Botanical Garden for technical assistance, materials & supplies and hands-on help to begin and sustain the Jericho Road Agricultural Project (JRAP).  The Jericho Road Youth Garden was funded in part by a grant from the Kaptur Community Fund of the Toledo Community Foundation.  Center of Hope also partners with the Community Heart Health Project of the Toledo-Lucas County Health Department, Center of Hope Family Services, City in a Garden and other urban agriculture initiatives. The garden’s address is 1661 Palmwood.  The Jericho Road Youth Urban Garden has the following objectives:

·        To provide access to produce or nutritionally rich foods otherwise unavailable to many families and individuals.

·        To donate produce to Martin Luther King Kitchen for the Poor.

·        To create or enhance access to places for physical activity.

·        To allow children and their parents to eat healthier, more nutrient rich diets.

·        To provide education where youth acquire agricultural skills, obtain nutrition awareness, and learn about the importance of soil and the basic need for plants to be nurtured and cared for.

In 2009, 25 children, and 15 adults have actively and regularly participated in the JRAP.  In 2010, CHFS will expand the JRAP by adding a high tunnel 'hoop house,” as well as engaging in activities including crop selection, soil preparation, feeding and fertilizing, and other crop maintenance issues.