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Many urban children never get the chance to learn how to make things grow, but all that has changed in Hamilton County. Hamilton County Farm Bureau, along with Gains United Methodist Church, Hamilton County SWCD and the City of Cincinnati, have developed a nine-month agriculture program for inner city youth.

Ninety children ages 5 to 14 are involved in the program this year. Through a grant, the church was able to purchase vacant lots where houses were destroyed following drug raids. They have planted a garden on the lots and the children have worked out a schedule so that a group of them is there every day to care for the garden.

Hamilton County Farm Bureau sponsored a field trip to a nearby farm and lunch to introduce the children to farming.

"This program allows these children to learn about agriculture and gives them leadership opportunities," said Amy Mole, organization director for Hamilton, Montgomery and Warren counties. "It’s a great way to make a positive out of something that was so negative before."