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Local Church's Garden Project Promotes Wellness

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Jul 9, 2009 10:42 pm US/Eastern

Local Church's Garden Project Promotes Wellness

WILKINSBURG (KDKA) ― Last March, First Lady Michelle Obama dug up the South Lawn of the White House for a garden to help promote healthy eating.

Now, a Wilkinsburg church has done the same thing.

The Garden Project at the Second United Presbyterian Church has not only transformed a neighborhood eyesore, it is also providing food for the body as well as the soul.

When numbers are called on the second Wednesday of every month, 50 to 60 families come to the church's food pantry, which is run by congregation and neighborhood volunteers.

Spinach, collards, carrots, peppers, tomatoes and fresh herbs now grow on what was once a trash-choked, overgrown borough park adjacent to the church.

"The impetus for starting the garden was really in people's requests for produce and more fresh foods which typically are not available at food pantries," said Lauren Broyles, the garden committee co-chair.

This is the garden's third-growing season.

This year, the "9-Mile Run Watershed Association" has donated an eco-friendly and water bill-friendly rain barrel. Also, there's a brand new grape arbor.

"It's great; it gives you such a boost in life. I love it," said garden volunteer, Harry Kirk.

He says he has plans for blueberry bushes and more beans, but believes the true bounty from the garden goes far beyond its borders.

"This really just means you're bringing the community together and everybody's just helping each other out as a rule," said Kirk. "And you're helping feed some people that really need help."

(© MMIX, CBS Broadcasting Inc. All Rights Reserved.)

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