A community-informed approach to develop a gardening model for the Bangladeshi community in Brooklyn, NY

Nationally, there is increased investment in interventions that address diet-related chronic diseases however few studies and interventions are developed to reflect the values and lifestyles of many communities, presenting a barrier to participation. This study aims to better understand the motivators and barriers for the Bangladeshi American community in Brooklyn, New York to participate in diet-related interventions. Formative qualitative interviews were conducted in English and Bangla with Bangladeshi adults (n = 12) to understand current shopping/cooking behaviors, access and usage of food programs, awareness and interest in food programs, and future program preferences. Participants reported three key themes: centrality of community behaviors for program acceptability, creating opportunities to leverage community and social motivations, and addressing logistical concerns during program development. Gardening emerged as a promising program offering to increase access to fresh produce, strengthen community bonds, and foster cross-cultural understanding. Using community feedback, Harvest Share Seedlings, a community-informed home gardening program, was co-developed and implemented with farming and community partners to increase access to fresh produce for the Bangladeshi community. The findings highlight the need to understand and center community-specific considerations when designing and implementing food programs and interventions. Adopting a community-informed approach increases uptake and acceptability from the community, and ensures sustainability in the long run.