DONALDSONVILLE, LA—-Extending our community garden into a larger space for heathy and safe cooking demonstrations will be used to host social, educational, and cultural events. As a museum and strong force in the community, we associate gardening with increased produce consumption, better eating habits, increased physical activity, decreased food spending, and increased social capital for the area. By continuing to provide an opportunity to plant culturally meaningful foods in a social setting, this community garden will increase community engagement and improve nutrition among residents.

The outdoor kitchen proposes a successful community space that will broaden neighborhood benefits such as educating on healthy cooking, increased walkability, increased community engagement and pride, and improved safety. The Rootin’ to Cookin’ Project will help develop a sense of belonging and connection with cultural identity, social community, and improve food security and nutrition, including benefits for all individuals.

This project was funded by a grant to the River Road African American Museum from the Louisiana Healthy Communities Coalition.

This is a free event open to the public. For more information, call Bianca Plant at 337-371-1207.