Contact: Mary Carstarphen 2564780402 *mlcarstarphenlaw@gmail.com
Church Launches Community Garden as Food Insecurity Rises
The First Baptist Church of East Gadsden (Green Pastures) launched a Community Garden in
response the declining economy and reduced Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program
(“SNAP” or “Food Stamps”) to Alabama families.
Over 750,000 Alabamians receive benefits under the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance
Program. Nationally, the Big Beautiful Big has already caused over 3.5 million people to lose SNAP
benefits between July 2025 and February 2026.
According to Alabama Arise, beginning in 2027, the State of Alabama is required to fund 10% of
SNAP benefit cost (about $172 million annually). If Alabama fails to meet this funding
requirement imposed under President Trump’s Big Beautiful Bill, Alabama could reduce
participants, further reduce benefits, or opt out entirely.
About 17% of Alabama adults and 23% of children already face food insecurity.
WVTV Channel 13 reported that deeper cuts could push more people into hunger, strain grocery
stores, and reduce food access, especially in rural areas.
Marie Johnson, Director of the local Food Bank, has seen a significant rise in the demand for
food assistance requests throughout Etowah County.
We can and must act now to minimize the impact on our community. The Community Garden Project will empower individuals, families, and groups to use home gardening as a tool to
enhance self-sufficiency, financial awareness, and community sharing in the face of rising food
insecurity.
According to Food Bank Director, Marie Johnson, a Community Garden reduces food insecurity
by 90%.
Dr. Charlie Parker, Principal of Litchfield Middle School and local spiritual leader, and County
Commissioner Jeffery Washington is among the Community Garden Project supporters.
Community Garden participants will be asked to purchase a Starter Kit consisting of a five
gallon grow bag, soil, fertilizer, shovel, gloves, and a plant or seeds at cost. However, Starter Kits will be available on a need basis to others at reduced or no cost.