First Lady Hosts White House Kitchen Garden Event [video and statement]

First Lady Melania Trump hosts a Kitchen Garden event at the White House on Friday afternoon.

A local children’s group will join Mrs. Trump in the Kitchen Garden which was established by former First Lady Michelle Obama in 2009 as a way to promote healthy eating.

Melania and the children will plant and harvest vegetables with help from the National Park Service who maintains the garden.

Vegetable gardens have been a part of the White House grounds since 1797 when President John Adams planted the first one. Several presidents and first ladies have carried on the tradition including First Lady Eleanor Roosevelt who planted a victory garden during World War II to encourage Americans to grow their own food during shortages.

Melania Trump’s Statement Following the Event

First Lady Melania Trump spent quality time today with several children from the Girls and Boys Club of Greater Washington, FBR Clubhouse in Ward 8. The children’s ages ranged from 10 to 11 years old. Along with the National Park Service (NPS), which maintains the White House grounds, the group spent time in the White House Kitchen Garden learning about the importance of the outdoors and healthy eating. After a tutorial from the NPS on how to harvest and plant, as well as the history of the Kitchen Garden and the White House beehive, the First Lady spoke with the children about their own gardens at home and what vegetables they enjoy.

Mrs. Trump stated, Healthy, nurturing, and positive environments are instrumental in enhancing the well-being and mindfulness of all children. They learn so much through their surroundings and the White House Kitchen Garden is a prime example of how children can enjoy the outdoors and learn about healthy eating and living, while also gaining an understanding of the White House and its rich history. I was so happy to be able to celebrate healthy living through fun activities with these special children today, and I look forward to future events in the garden.