Earth Day brings out the green side in just about everyone—well, almost everyone. Ash Kalra, San Jose’s District 2 councilmember, is doing his part Friday by planting his own organic vegetable garden at his home.
Kalra said in a statement that it’s important for people to realize just how big of an effect they have on the environment.
“Growing your own organic vegetables is a great way to help reduce the carbon footprint traditionally required for food production and transportation,” he said. “Additionally, having access to healthy food in your own backyard is great for your body and budget.”
Members of La Mesa Verde, a Sacred Heart Community Services program, will install in Kalra’s backyard a raised planter box containing heirloom tomatoes, cucumbers and strawberries, which are expected to yield an estimated five pounds of produce to supplement household meals.
La Mesa Verde’s mission is to help low-income families grow organic vegetables in their own homes. As for its program, La Mesa Verde identifies low-income households and then sends community volunteers to install vegetable gardens in their yards.
La Mesa Verde also provides classes with master gardeners on maintaining an organic vegetable garden.
Friday’s event will be held from 3:30 to 5 pm.
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