(Aug. 2015) Assemblyman Bill Magee (D-Nelson) announced that a bill he sponsored to give senior citizens expanded access to community gardens was signed into law by Governor Cuomo on Thursday Aug. 13 (Ch. 154 of 2015). The law increases opportunities for seniors to participate in community garden programs by lowering the minimum age to qualify for logistical support through the state Office of Community Gardens from 62 to 60.
“Community gardens give those without gardening space of their own, such as seniors living in retirement communities or assisted living, the opportunity to explore gardening,” Assemblyman Magee said. “It also helps them lead a more active lifestyle and improves their quality of life.
The Office of Community Gardens is responsible for identifying vacant lots to be converted into community gardens, as well as guiding individuals and community groups through the necessary procedures when establishing a garden – including help identifying and securing grant funds. The office is required to identify ways to include more seniors in its programs, and this law expands the number of people it must help.
“Gardening enables many older people to remain active and often becomes an essential part of their life,” said Assemblyman Magee. “Community gardens give them the chance to do what they love, while producing fresh food and taking part in the community. As chair of the agriculture committee, I will continue to fight for access to fresh local foods for our seniors and neighbors.”