Running Strong for American Indian Youth® has been assisting the efforts of the Slim Buttes Agricultural Development (SBAG) program to help residents on the Pine Ridge Indian Reservation establish gardens in their own backyards since 1985, thanks to our supporters from across the country.
Last year alone, SBAG helped 50 first-time families and organizations started gardens – serving 360 individuals ages 4 to 90 with more to come this spring!
SBAG tills gardens in backyards, distributes seeds and thousands of seedlings it grows in its greenhouse, builds and refurbishes raised beds, constructs planter boxes and more to in our joint mission to enable residents of the reservation, known as a food desert, to enjoy the freshly picked vegetables and fruits they grew themselves for a healthier diet.
In addition, SBAG field director Milo Yellow Hair hosts a radio program on KILI Radio which serves Pine Ridge providing information on gardening, diabetes control, healthy recipes in both Lakota and English.
March is National Nutrition Month and we know that healthy living begins with healthy eating. A well-balanced diet positively impacts a person’s health and well-being.
This year, thanks to friends like you, our goal is to help SBAG train even more budding gardeners into successful harvesters throughout the summer and into the fall.
