For 20 years, Urban Tree Connection has been on a crusade to provide low-income Philadelphians with access to affordable and nutritious food. In early October, the organization received $10,000 in grant money from the Lincoln Financial Foundation to support their Growing Healthy Initiative. Since 2006, the program has worked to repurpose the city’s many vacant lots. Distressed land in Haddington, West Philadelphia and North Philadelphia has been transformed into urban gardens. Once established, the gardens serve as community spaces, feeding local residents and educating young people on the benefits of eating healthy, staying active and respecting the environment.
5125 Woodbine Ave., 215-877-7203, urbantreeconnection.org
