By Blake Jackson
Established under the Second Morrill Act in 1890, Lincoln University of Missouri (LU) continues to support communities through its Cooperative Extension programs.
Rooted in agricultural education, Lincoln University Cooperative Extension (LUCE) promotes healthier lifestyles and food access across the state through a network of community gardens.
These gardens serve not just as places to grow food, but as spaces for education, empowerment and equity. LUCE’s Charleston Outreach Center leads many of these efforts, focusing on reducing food insecurity in Southeast Missouri, the Delta region, areas like St. Louis and Kansas City, and regions near the Arkansas border.
One major initiative is G.A.R.D.E.N. - Growing Area Gardens in Rural/Urban Destinations Encouraging Healthy Nutrition. Backed by the Missouri Department of Social Services, the program provides resources and education to underserved communities.
“This work powerfully reflects the lasting impact of the Second Morrill Act,” said Sheryl Maxwell of the LUCE Charleston Outreach Center. “When I see a young person proudly harvesting vegetables they helped grow or an elder sharing their gardening knowledge with others, I see the spirit of that Act come to life.”
At the Taylor Center in Howardville, families pass on gardening traditions. “Our children and grandchildren help in the gardens,” said Mary Lynn Taylor. “My grandson can tell you all about plants from the ground to the seed to the harvest. We’ve passed this knowledge through our family.”
In St. Louis, Leah Lee Pulliam leads Growing Food, Growing People, which partners with LUCE to support gardens at churches, daycare centers, and transitional homes. “They’ve helped make this work more sustainable,” Pulliam said.
Kansas City’s Urban Green Dreams, led by Brooke Grimes, also benefits from LUCE’s support. “We just recently got some stipends from Lincoln to help with our garden endeavors this year,” said Grimes.
“Community outreach is central to our purpose," says Interim Dean of LU’s College of Agriculture, Environmental and Human Sciences and Associate Cooperative Research Director Dr. Tunsisa Hurisso.
"By sharing science-backed agricultural knowledge and resources, Lincoln University honors the 1890 land-grant vision and ensures that underserved communities continue to have access to tools for growth and success."
Photo Credit: lincoln-univsersity-missouri
Categories: Missouri, Crops, Education