The Root Problem
Martin County has high levels of childhood obesity — more than 30% — and in certain economically-challenged communities, that number is as high as 60%, according to data from the Florida Department of Health. Some parts of the community also have higher-than-normal rates for adult diabetes and a generally poor understanding of good nutrition, and residents lack healthy eating habits.
The Solutions
Servings thousands of individuals every year, the goals are simple but comprehensive:
- To improve knowledge of nutrition concepts.
- To improve attitudes towards healthy eating.
- To provide local youth with educational opportunities focused on gardening, healthy eating habits, and basic cooking instruction geared toward preparing healthy meals.
- To raise awareness of the link between nutrition and healthy eating to overall good health and development in children and adults.
- To connect children and families to local opportunities for health and nutrition education.
Current Locations
- The Banner Lake Club
- Golden Gate Center for Enrichment
- East Stuart Nutrition Garden in partnership with the City of Stuart
- YMCA of the Treasure Coast
- Traveling Nutrition Education Garden
- Edible landscape at House of Hope's main service center
How to Help
You can play a role in these transformational efforts through volunteering, offering in-kind materials and services, and providing monetary support.
For more information, please contact Lauren Mustelier, director of enrichment and engagement, at lauren@hohmartin.org or (772) 286-4673, ext. 1004. To volunteer in our gardens, please fill out an application by clicking here.
