Healthy Community Initiative

Twelve Arcadia middle school students applied for funds to purchase a garden tower. The school’s small size limits the types of foods available to students, and without a fully-equipped cafeteria and kitchen, students must either bring their own lunches or rely on shelf-stable foods the school provides. YouthBank supported the reconstruction of Arcadia’s outdoor hoop house several years ago, but it isn’t usable during the winter months. The hydroponic garden tower will use less water and energy than a traditional indoor garden system, while still providing students access to fresh greens, herbs, and veggies. Students hope to donate extra produce and also plan to sell herbs to help with the upkeep and purchase of additional seeds.