Shout Out for Project Grow

Dear Gardening Friends, 
 
We are writing to request your support on an urgent issue.  As you may have heard, the City of Ann Arbor is proposing to make drastic cuts to its 2010 and 2011 budgets.  Many local programs, including Project Grow, are slated to lose funding.  While we receive a modest amount of money from our local government - $7000 annually - this financial contribution comprises 15% of our annual budget.  The loss of this support will have a major impact on our ability to deliver the accessible and inclusive organic gardening activities that Project Grow is known to offer.  
 
You can help make a difference! If you believe in building community, living sustainably, and growing organic vegetables here in Ann Arbor, then we urge you to contact your city councilperson and the mayor, and ask them to continue supporting Project Grow.  Below, please follow the link to locate your councilperson's and the mayor's contact information.  Please be sure to share with them a personal story and request that they continue to support Project Grow.  Also, please feel free to share this information with your family and friends.
 
http://www.a2gov.org/government/citycouncil/Pages/Home.aspx
 
The Project Grow Board of Directors has identified the following important issues to address with City Council, so feel free to use them in your communication:

 

         ::currently, sustainability and local food are in the limelight

         ::locally and throughout the country more people are gardening in this poor economy 

         ::the demand for Project Grow garden plots is so high that we have had to turn away over

                forty applicants this year 

         ::Project Grow's garden activities provide opportunities for all, regardless of income or

                 disability 

         ::Project Grow is reaching out and fostering new relationships with other area nonprofits,

                 including Food Gathers and Avalon Housing, to ensure all members from our

                 community have the opportunity to eat fresh, organic foods 

  
We thank you in advance for your continued support.  Together, we can make an impact on our community!
 
Sincerely, 
The Project Grow Board