Lynnwood’s first city-managed community garden was formally dedicated last week with Mayor Don Gough, City Councilmembers, community members, gardeners and city employees in attendance.

The long-term goal of this community garden, located adjacent to the Lynnwood Senior Center, is to increase wellness, foster inter-generational interaction, increase access to fresh produce, and provide a much needed service to the community.

The City’s commitment to the Healthy Communities Program remains strong and community gardens can play a significant role in enhancing the physical, emotional and spiritual well-being necessary to build healthy and socially sustainable communities.

The health benefits of gardening are as abundant as the garden’s yield. Studies have shown that community gardens:

Reduce crime and beautifies neighborhoods

Foster relationships and social interaction

Provide low-cost food for families

Benefit psychological health

Support healthy lifestyles, creating opportunities for exercise

Reduce waste

Promote neighborhood socialization

The Healthy Communities’ model was developed to help communities create policies and community environments that support good nutrition and opportunities for physical activity; essentially, making the healthy choice the easy choice. Evidence shows that in most cases obesity can be prevented if people move more and eat nutritiously.

Supporters include:  Appreciation Fund – Lynnwood Senior Center, Catholic Community Services of Snohomish County / RSVP, Cedar Grove, City of Lynnwood Park Operations, City of Lynnwood Public Works Department , Dunn Lumber, Lowe’s Home Improvement, Osborne Chiropractic, Wight’s Home & Garden and United Way of Snohomish County.