The 166th recipient is Deja Barnes of Nuff Roots & Seeds @nuff_roots_seeds_ in Ocoee, FL. Deja writes, “My love for farming was inspired by my late grandfather Headley. Because of him, Nuff Roots & Seeds was created to inspire families to grow their own organic food. With love and support from family and friends, our presence continues to grow in Orlando, FL.
To provide support in my community, I volunteer with a local non-profit called Love Our Youth, Inc., teaching gardening classes to youth and their families. To date, I have conducted multiple in-person and virtual gardening classes for families in the community.
During the pandemic, cultivating food became a topic in many households due to the impact on major food supply chains. The gap in our food supply inspired me to start a small business to assist families with gardening projects.
Personally, gardening as helped me to improve many aspects of my mental health in areas like focus and concentration. My garden is a judgement free zone from the outside world.”