Improving the health of the people of Western North Carolina is the focus of Mission Health, and that effort begins with improving the health of the children in Buncombe County. When we teach our children about healthy eating – which includes a diet rich in fresh fruits and vegetables – we go a long way in preventing obesity, diabetes, and other lifelong health complications. Our hope is that this project will ultimately produce a model that can be replicated not only throughout Buncombe County, but also throughout our region and ultimately the nation.
Mission's Role
As the learning garden’s lead sponsor, Mission Children’s Hospital has made a five-year commitment to the project as part of their long-term goal to proactively improve the health and well-being of Buncombe County residents.
Mission’s support takes the form of an $18,000 matching donation to any Asheville City or Buncombe County elementary school interested in creating its own learning garden.
To apply for the matching donation, or learn more about the program, click here.
Advisory Committee Committee Members
The advisory committee helps guide selected schools throughout the entire development of their learning gardens. Committee guidance topics include fundraising, site evaluation, timelines, installation and planting.
