On March 22, at the Compassionate Houston Annual Fundraiser luncheon, Dr. Bob Randall, co-founder of Urban Harvest and his wife Nancy, were honored for lives dedicated to increasing food security in Houston. The program featured video interviews of Dr. Bob and several other community garden representatives, including WCG President, Debbie Gordon. Janna Roberson, Executive Director of Urban Harvest, was also interviewed live at the event. The theme, “Sowing The Seeds of Compassion” highlighted all the good things that community gardens do for the greater Houston area.
Harris County Precinct 2 Commissioner, Adrian Garcia, issued a proclamation in honor of the day. It reads:
WHEREAS, Since the emergence of community gardens as a wartime effort nearly a century ago, the practice of community gardening as flourished in cities and towns across the United States, including the vibrant city of Houston; and
WHEREAS, Today hundreds of community gardens thrive within the boundaries of our great city serving as a testament of the enduring spirit of collaboration and compassion among neighbors; and
WHEREAS, Community Gardens are more than just plots yielding beautiful flowers and fresh produce; they serve as a catalyst for social cohesion and interaction, providing spaces for people from diverse backgrounds can come together, share knowledge, and forge lasting relationships, thereby fostering stronger and more resilient neighborhoods; and
WHEREAS, These community-led gardens play a vital role in promoting environmental sustainability by advocating for green spaces, biodiversity, and conservation practices; and
WHEREAS, In and around Houston, these gardens serve multiple purposes including the cultivation of fruits and vegetables for donation to food pantries and shelters, functioning as outdoor classrooms where hands-on education on healthy eating habits is imparted to students, and addressing the issue of food deserts by providing access to nutritious food options; and
WHEREAS, on Friday, March 22, 2024, the 7th Annual Luncheon Co-Chairs Compassionate Houston Board Members Anita Long and Lynn Loughney, were recognized for their visionary dedication and support throughout the greater Houston area, tirelessly fight hunger disparities, build community, and educate individuals on healthy lifestyles rooted in sustainable community practices, and passion.
NOW, THEREFORE, I CALL ON ALL RESIDENTS OF PRECINCT TWO IN CELEBRATING MARCH 22, 2024, AS COMPASSION-IN-ACTION: SOWING SEEDS OF COMPASSION COMMUNITY GARDEN APPRECIATION DAY, BY THE POWER VESTED IN ME BY HARRIS COUNTY AND THE STATE OF TEXAS, I HEREBY AFFIX MY SIGNATURE.
Adrian Garcia
Harris County Commissioner, Precinct 2