DANBURY — After a successful first year, United Way of Coastal and Western Connecticut (UWCWC) is expanding its Seedlings to Sprouts initiative in partnership with a $50,000 state Department of Agriculture’s CT Grown for CT Kids grant. Now entering its second year, Seedlings to Sprouts is increasing access to fresh, local produce and nutrition education for young children, families, and child care providers in Danbury and New Milford. In 2025, with renewed funding, the program will establish eight new on-site gardens at provider locations in Danbury and New Milford, serving an additional 60 children. To improve access to fresh, local fruits and vegetables, the program will transition from a produce voucher system to a food box delivery model, with coordinated drop-offs at 25 provider locations. • Continued partnership with UConn Extension’s Expanded Food and Nutrition Education Program (EFNEP), delivering six culturally relevant nutrition and cooking classes to providers and families• Onsite child care offered during nutrition classes to remove barriers to participation.