Growing Healthy Habits: Impacts of a Youth Community Garden for Children in Rural Mississippi

Author

• Olivia G. DeGravelle, University of Mississippi Main CampusFollow

Date of Award

Spring 4-15-2026

Document Type

Undergraduate Thesis

Department

Nutrition and Hospitality Management

First Advisor

Georgianna Mann

Second Advisor

Ellen Ossorio

Third Advisor

Vivian Ibrahim

Relational Format

Dissertation/ Thesis

Abstract

This study examines the implementation and outcomes of a Youth Garden Program conducted in Pontotoc, Mississippi. Funded by the Allstate Community Service Project Grant, the Youth Garden was constructed within the previously established Pontotoc Community Garden. The initiative comprised four weekly workshops designed for participants ranging from preschool to adolescence. Each session incorporated hands-on fruit and vegetable (FV) planting or harvesting, an educational lesson, and a complementary craft activity. Children’s FV consumption patterns, nutritional knowledge, and attitudes toward FV were assessed through pre- and post-program surveys. In addition, the photo-elicitation interview method invited participants to take digital photographs of garden features they found interesting and to describe their significance.

Quantitative results indicated only slight differences in reported enjoyment of FV among nine participants. Qualitative findings suggested improved understanding of where produce originates and the importance of consuming it. Overall, the Youth Garden Program displayed a promising framework for engaging children in gardening to promote FV appreciation through community involvement and experiential learning. Although limited by sample size, wide age range, and variable attendance, findings suggest that garden-based interventions can help address insufficient exposure to fresh produce, reduce nutrition knowledge gaps, and foster positive attitudes towards healthy eating.

Recommended Citation

DeGravelle, Olivia G., "Growing Healthy Habits: Impacts of a Youth Community Garden for Children in Rural Mississippi" (2026). Honors Theses. 3455.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/hon_thesis/3455