FIRM is the fiscal agent and one of a collection of groups coming together to form the Therapeutic Horticultural Program. This program will not only work to reduce food insecurity for families, but also focus on education, support and outreach around issues of mental health: depression, isolation, PTSD and other issues.
Five gardens will be a part of the program: three existing gardens, and two new ones– one on the FIRM Offices property! The second new garden is going in at Mono & 9th, across from the Slavic Baptist Church. All staff working with the program have received specialized training, Mental Health First Aid.
Each garden will offer a shelter space where “well-being training” and education and outreach on mental health topics will take place. In the future, the hope is that the program will be able to develop support groups based on the needs that are discovered.
Applications for gardener-participants are now being received. For program and application information, contact Tony Bounthapanya.