Michelle Obama’s White House Garden to Become Permanent Legacy

A walkway lined with pavers and layered with mulch is featured in one of the new improvement to the White House Kitchen Garden at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016. Michelle Obama is going all-out to ensure the White House kitchen garden that she created in 2009 doesn't get plowed under by the next first family. A month out from Election Day, the first lady’s office unveiled an expanded and improved garden, with the hope that it will endure regardless of who takes office come January. AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta

Ahead of the Obamas’ departure from the White House in January 2017, First Lady Michelle Obama has ensured that a piece of her legacy remains intact long after she leaves.

The White House announced on Oct. 5 that the Burpee Foundation and the W. Atlee Burpee Company donated $2.5 million toward Obama’s Kitchen Garden.

The newly renovated and now much larger garden—2,800 feet—was updated with an arbor, benches, a table, and walkways.

Under the arbor is an inscription stone that reads: “White House Kitchen Garden, established in 2009 by First Lady Michelle Obama with the hope of growing a healthier nation for our children.”

A new paver etched with markings "White House Kitchen Garden" is seen at the entrance to the White House Kitchen Garden at the White House in Washington, Wednesday, Oct. 5, 2016. AP Photo/Manuel Balce Ceneta