Congresswoman Eddie Bernice Johnson participated in the ribbon cutting ceremony at the student run agricultural farm at Paul Quinn College in South Dallas.
"I am proud of Paul Quinn and the initiative of these students," said Congresswoman Johnson. "This farm will supply the students and the community with many necessary fresh fruits and vegetables, and allow students to have a direct hand in uplifting their local community" she said to a gathering of university officials, students, community members and students.
Paul Quinn College President Michael Sorrell applauded the Congresswoman for helping the college to secure funding from the U S Department of Agriculture to expand the farm which is located on the college's former football field. Joe Leonard, the USDA Assistant Secretary of Civil Rights, noted that the farm was an important part of the government 's interest and promotion of urban farming. This farm expansion by Paul Quinn is part of a larger national push to increase the availability of locally grown fruits and vegetables to urban communities that have decreased access to these fresh food alternatives.
The farm already supplies local restaurants and community residents with fresh fruits and vegetables, said Elizabeth Wattley, the farm's manager. "Our students and community residents work together to make it a success. Among the farm's many customers are the Dallas Cowboys.”
