Two University Place schools receive garden grants from Whole Kids Foundation

Two University Place schools will each receive $2,000 school garden grants through Whole Kids Foundation, a Whole Foods Market foundation. Students at University Place’s Evergreen Primary and Curtis High School can now enjoy an edible educational garden.

Gardens are becoming an increasingly used educational tool as school gardens are shown to improve children’s behavior and performance at school and improve their attitudes about and appreciate for the environment. Additionally, only two percent of children eat enough fresh fruits and vegetables, but children who grow their own food are more likely to eat fruits and vegetables and to be more knowledgeable about nutrition.

“We are passionate about providing students with the opportunity to engage in learning outside of classrooms, and educational gardens do just that,” said Nona Evans, executive director and president of Whole Kids Foundation. “The joy and gratitude that comes from funding these programs for students never dulls.”

Whole Foods Market in University Place is located at 3515 Bridgeport Way West. The store is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sales, coupons, events and more are available at www.wholefoodsmarket.com/stores/chambersbay.