January 28, 2009 - Continuing its tradition of establishing school gardens to benefit school age children, Conexions, a San Francisco Bay Area non-profit, has received grant funding of $55,000 to establish five more learning gardens during 2009.   The five schools selected within San Jose Unified School District include a high percentage of children who are at-risk for juvenile diabetes or prone to obesity.

Addressing the rising trend in child obesity
Getting Going Growing, a project of Conexions, connects children with the sources of their food by providing support to school gardens in Santa Clara and San Mateo Counties. The collective efforts lead by Getting Going Growing increases students’ overall health, fitness, and imparts a life long appreciation of fresh fruits and vegetables.
“Using a garden as an outdoor classroom benefits students with physical activity, knowledge about healthy food options, and provides the basis of life skills in gardening and cooking. We have seen this to be true over and over again through our efforts,” said Susan Stansbury, Executive Director of Conexions. 
“School gardens provide a tremendous opportunity for our students to learn about their environment, the food they eat and the personal connection and commitment they have to their community.  In this time of educational budget crisis, we are grateful to Conexions and the project partners for their generous contributions to San Jose Unified.  This support truly makes a difference in the education of our students and makes for a healthier world tomorrow." Don Iglesias, Superintendent, San Jose Unified School District.

Partners in the Project
Conexions received funding from The Health Trust, Michael Lee Environmental Foundation, and Whole Foods, and is partnering with The Master Gardeners of Santa Clara County, as well as other organizations to establish the five gardens during the upcoming year.  Collectively, these organizations have extensive experience in establishing successful school gardens in Santa Clara County. 
Ralph Schardt, Executive Director of Michael Lee Foundation adds “We are excited to participate in our partnership with Conexions and work towards our joint vision of a garden in every school.” 

About Conexions
Conexions is a nonprofit organization located in the San Francisco Bay Area focused on empowering the local community and businesses with skills, knowledge, and experiences for a sustainable future.  Conexions’ Getting Going Growing has helped establish over 40 school gardens since 2000. For more information visit www.conexions.org/gettinggoinggrowing.

Contact
Susan Stansbury, Program Director, (650) 938-9300 (x11), sstansbury@conexions.org
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