Gardens grow with one-off grants

Gardening projects aimed at getting Pacific communities to eat more fruit and vegetables are now eligible for an $8000 grant.

The Tupu-Pacific Gardening for Health community grants are being offered by the Counties Manukau District Health Board.

They are part of the board’s commitment to improve nutrition and reduce diabetes and obesity in Pacific communities.

The one-off grants can be used by community or church groups to set up a new gardening project or strengthen an existing initiative.

They must aim to boost the amount of fruit and vegetables eaten by the Pacific community and grown in home gardens, and increase physical activity through gardening.

Applications close on November 13 at 4pm. For more information call 261-3373.